Premier Li sends condolences to Pakistani PM over quake

Chinese Premier Li Keqiangsent a message of condolence Wednesday to Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to express deep sympathy over the casualties and loss of property resulting from Tuesday's powerful earthquake.

He conveyed his condolences to the victims and their families on behalf of the Chinese government, its people and himself, saying he believed the Pakistani government and people will absolutely overcome disaster and rebuild their homeland under the leadership of the prime minister.

China is willing to give a helping hand by offering emergency aid for Pakistan's needs, he said.

A total of 208 people are reported to have been killed in the 7.7-magnitude quake that hit Pakistan's southwest province of Balochistan on Tuesday afternoon.