China Launches All-Out Rescue Efforts after 6.8-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Xizang Autonomous Region

President Xi Jinping has ordered urgent, large-scale rescue operations in response to a devastating 6.8-magnitude earthquake that struck a county in southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region on Tuesday morning. The powerful tremor caused significant damage and loss of life, prompting immediate efforts from national authorities to save lives and minimize casualties.

Xi, who is also the General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, issued a directive emphasizing the importance of extensive search and rescue operations, medical aid for the injured, and prevention of secondary disasters. He stressed the need for rapid deployment of disaster relief supplies and the swift restoration of damaged infrastructure. Xi also highlighted the importance of ensuring that affected residents have their basic needs met, especially as the region faces the challenges of a cold winter.

In parallel, Premier Li Qiang, a key member of the CPC Standing Committee, ordered swift assessments of the disaster’s impact and the mobilization of all available resources for rescue operations. Li underscored the urgency of providing warmth and shelter for survivors, as the earthquake-hit area is located in a high-altitude, cold plateau region.

Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, has been dispatched to the region to oversee the rescue efforts and guide the ongoing relief operations. The government has called for the immediate repair of infrastructure and the provision of essential supplies to guarantee the safety and well-being of the affected communities.