Chilean Earthquake

The Latin American New Zealand Business Council (LANZBC) wishes to express its deepest concern and sympathies to those affected by the disastrous earthquake in Chile over the weekend. LANZBC Chairman Chris Hawley advised today that he had sent a message to the Ambassador of Chile to New Zealand, His Excellency Mr Luis Lillo, conveying these sentiments.

“First and foremost, our thoughts are with the millions of Chileans affected by this tragedy”, said Mr Hawley. “Their daily lives will doubtless be affected for a long time to come”.

The LANZBC fosters New Zealand business links with Latin America, and many of its members have strong personal and commercial ties with Chile. “Thus our thoughts are also with Chile-based New Zealanders and their local staff,” Mr Hawley added. “We are relieved that, so far, there are no reports of New Zealand casualties or major damage to New Zealand-owned businesses”.

The Council is currently working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade to help ensure all New Zealanders living in or visiting Chile are accounted for.

Mr Hawley confirmed the Council was ready to assist in any way it can to support New Zealand’s contribution to relief and recovery effort. “New Zealand businesses have had a long relationship with Chile and would value the opportunity to help their Chilean friends at this difficult time”, said Mr Hawley.

ENDS

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