Venezuela's Acting President Orders Three Key Post-Earthquake Recovery Steps

Caracas (ANTARA) - The Acting President of Venezuela, Delcy Rodriguez, has introduced three key steps for rescue and reconstruction efforts following two powerful earthquakes that struck the northern part of the country on Wednesday.

The Acting President has ordered the mobilisation of debris clearance equipment from private companies, the establishment of a $200 million relief fund, and the provision of special credit facilities for affected business owners. According to the President of the National Assembly of Venezuela, Jorge Rodriguez, these are essential measures in response to the devastating earthquakes, which are the most significant the country has experienced in decades.

Meanwhile, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil stated on Thursday (25/6) that the country is taking the necessary steps to coordinate international aid. At least 12 countries from the region and other parts of the world have expressed solidarity and offered assistance.

On Wednesday, Venezuela was shaken by two consecutive earthquakes with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5. The disaster caused widespread damage in La Guaira State, located in the north-central region of the country, and caused severe damage in the Caracas metropolitan area. According to official data, at least 188 people had died and more than 1,520 were injured as of Thursday afternoon.