Prez condoles loss of lives caused by cyclone in Vanuatu

President Pranab Mukherjee has condoled the loss of lives and large scale destruction caused by the cyclone that struck Vanuatu last Friday.

"I was deeply concerned to learn of the loss of life and large scale destruction caused by the cyclone that struck Vanuatu last Friday," said President Mukherjee in his message to Baldwin Lonsdale, the President of Republic of Vanuatu.

"I extend, on behalf of the Government and people of India, deepest condolences to the Government and people of Vanuatu. Our sympathies and prayers are with the bereaved and displaced families," he added.

President Mukherjee further said the people of India stand by the people of Vanuatu at this difficult time.

"I understand that relief and rescue efforts are ongoing and I am confident that the Government and people of Vanuatu will overcome the devastation caused by the disaster with fortitude and determination," he added.