ISLAMABAD, Oct 23 (DNA): President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday expressed deep grief over the loss of lives in a devastating earthquake that struck Nagqu City in southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region.

The president, who is in Germany for a three-day visit, in a statement, extended his heartfelt condolences to Chinese President Xi Jinping, the bereaved families, and the people of China who lost their loved ones in the calamity.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s complete solidarity with China, he said that Pakistan stood firmly with its Chinese brothers and sisters during this difficult time.

President Zardari also prayed for the swift and complete recovery of those injured in the earthquake.

According to Chinese Xinhua news agency, sixteen people were killed and 32 others injured after a 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck Baqen County of Nagqu City in southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region on Thursday night.