OECS Says Eastern Caribbean Students in Morocco Are Safe
A man stands next to a damaged hotel after the earthquake in Moulay Brahim village, near the epicentre of the earthquake, outside Marrakech, Morocco, Saturday, September 9, 2023. (AP Photo/Mosa'ab Elshamy)
Source: Loop Caribbean
All of the students from the Eastern Caribbean, who are currently studying in Morocco have been accounted for following Friday’s devastating earthquake.
This was confirmed by the Director General of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Dr. Didacus Jules.
In a statement, Jules said the Embassies of Eastern Caribbean States to the Kingdom of Morocco have been in touch with all nationals in Morocco and has affirmed that none have been directly affected.
Jules also expressed the concern and solidarity of the OECS Commission indicating that, “Morocco has been a steadfast friend and ally of the OECS and we wish the Kingdom a speedy recovery from this traumatic event.”
Meanwhile, OECS Chairman and Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis Dr Terrance Drew joined global leaders in sending condolences to the people of Morocco following the devastating earthquake.
In a letter to King Mohammed VI, Drew said: “On behalf of the OECS Authority, please allow me to express our profound regret on this sad occurrence, and please accept our heartfelt condolences on the tragic loss of life; and to those who are injured, our wishes for a very speedy recovery. At this time of great difficulty, the OECS Authority assures the Government and people of the Kingdom of Morocco, and in particular, the families of the victims of its solidarity and prayerful consideration.”
The earthquake, which struck Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains shortly before midnight, had a magnitude of 6.8. The provinces of Al Haouz, Ouarzazate, Marrakech, Azilal, Chichaoua, and Taroudant were the most affected.
Over 2,000 people have died and over 1,400 people were injured.