Chinese mainland extends sympathy to Taiwan after typhoon

The Chinese mainland-based Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS) sent a letter of condolence to the Taiwan-based Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) on Friday regarding the devastation wrought on Taiwan by Typhoon Saola.

Since Wednesday, five people have died, two remain missing and more than 16 have sustained injuries in Taiwan due to Typhoon Saola, according to the island's emergency operation center.

The letter said the ARATS was "deeply concerned" about the death and injuries as well as property losses caused by the floods and mudslides on the island, and it asked SEF to convey its "sincere sympathy" to relevant authorities and affected people.

Saola, which started heading northwest from the island's eastern coast on Wednesday, dumped heavy rains and generated strong winds in Taiwan, causing school and office closures and flight disruptions. It also forced the relocation of more than 8,000 people.

The ARATS expressed gratitude towards the SEF's sympathy expressed July 13 regarding mainland rainstorms, and had passed it to relevant authorities, the letter said.

The ARATS and the SEF are organizations authorized by the Chinese mainland and Taiwan respectively to handle cross-Strait affairs.