Message from Ambassador Van der Wiel

News article | March 3, 2011

On 3 March 2011 Ambassador Arie van der Wiel sent the following message to the Mayor of Christchurch Bob Parker:

"On behalf of the Dutch government but also the Dutch community in New Zealand allow me to offer our deepest sympathies and condoleances to you and to all the people of Christchurch.

It must be particularly distressing that for the second time in less than half a year your city has been struck by such a devastating earthquake.

New Zealand Civil Defence, its volunteers and local authorities have to be commended for their commitment and struggle to save those still entrapped in the rubble. Their courage and determination is exemplary for New Zealand's resilience and is admired by the entire international community.

Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and all those doing so much to help those affected."