BEIJING - China stands ready to provide emergency assistance in accordance with the needs of Vanuatu, a spokesperson of the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) said Wednesday.

It is reported that a powerful earthquake struck Vanuatu on Tuesday, leaving some buildings damaged or collapsed in its capital city of Port Vila.

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Extending sympathies, spokesperson Li Ming said that China is deeply saddened by the casualties and property losses caused by the earthquake in Vanuatu.