President Xi sends condolences to President of South Korea over stampede in Seoul

Beijing, The Gulf Observer: Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a message of condolences on Sunday to South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol over a stampede in the South Korean capital, Seoul.

In his message, Xi said he was shocked to hear about the accident that caused heavy casualties.

On behalf of the Chinese government and people, Xi extended deep condolences to the victims and sincere sympathy to their families.

Several Chinese citizens were unfortunately killed or injured in the accident, Xi said, expressing his hope that the South Korean side will make every effort to treat those injured and handle the follow-up matters properly.

On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang also sent a message of condolences to South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo.

At least 151 people were killed and 82 others injured in the stampede that occurred on Saturday night in Itaewon, a district of Seoul, local authorities said on Sunday.

Four Chinese nationals died in the stampede, the Chinese Embassy in South Korea has told a reporter.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry has activated the emergency mechanism for consular protection and deployed the staff of the Chinese Embassy in South Korea to conduct the emergency response.