Death toll from earthquake in Colombia rises to 294: President asks Trump to suspend customs duties

As search-and-rescue and debris removal efforts continue in the region following the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck Colombia on August 10, new information regarding the loss of life and damage has been released.

According to data shared by the Colombian National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD), the number of people who lost their lives in the earthquake has risen to 294. It was stated that the number of injured is 3,935, while 320 people are still reported missing. It was noted that 14,493 structures were destroyed and 81,506 structures were damaged due to the earthquake.

DE LA ESPRIELLA SPOKE WITH TRUMP BY PHONE

Colombian President Abelardo De La Espriella announced in a statement on his social media account that he held a 10-minute phone conversation with US President Donald Trump.

Stating that he thanked Trump for the economic aid and search-and-rescue support provided by the US to Colombia, De La Espriella said, "President Trump conveyed his condolences and expressed that they stand in solidarity with Colombian families."

"I REQUESTED THAT CUSTOMS DUTIES BE TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED"

Stating that he conveyed to Trump that Colombia is going through a difficult process due to the earthquake, De La Espriella said, "Furthermore, in order to provide relief to our business people who are going through very difficult times due to the effects of the earthquake, I requested that he consider temporarily suspending the high customs duties affecting Colombian products."

Stating that the phone call was friendly and sincere, De La Espriella said, "President Trump was extremely genuine; he expressed his love for Colombia and our people. I once again reiterated my deep gratitude to him for the US's solidarity and support for Colombia. Today, the alliance between Colombia and the US for the reconstruction of our nation is a greater necessity than ever before."