Portugal conveys its solidarity to Colombia after earthquake with multiple victims

Portugal's President António José Seguro has conveyed his condolences and solidarity to Colombia in the wake of a powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck the South American nation. The tremor caused widespread devastation and loss of life.

In a statement released by his office, President Seguro expressed his sympathy on behalf of himself and the Portuguese people. "On his personal behalf and on behalf of the Portuguese people, the President of the Republic expresses his solidarity with the Colombian people, extending heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and wishing a speedy recovery to all the injured," the statement read.

Official figures indicate that the earthquake has claimed at least 111 lives and caused extensive destruction in at least five departments. Authorities anticipate that this number may rise as the situation unfolds. The Colombian government has responded by declaring a state of "national disaster" to mobilize resources and aid efforts.

The seismic event was felt across a wide area of Colombia, including major cities such as Bogotá, Cali, Popayán, Manizales, Armenia, Pereira, and Medellín. Its impact extended beyond Colombia's borders, with tremors also reported in Panama and Ecuador. The coffee-growing region in central Colombia appears to have been particularly hard-hit by the earthquake.