British Columbians were horrified to hear of the devastation caused by Saturday’s twin earthquakes in East Azerbaijan Province, Northwest Iran. Over 300 people have been killed and over 3000 injured, mostly women and children.

British Columbia is grieving with the Persian community here in B.C. and also in Iran.

It is heartbreaking to see the images on TV and on the internet; and to hear directly from those of you who have family and friends back home. The Persian community is an integral part of our province and we are thinking of you and your loved ones.

On behalf of the BC Government and all British Columbians, I send our deepest condolences to those who have lost family and friends to this tragedy.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this very difficult time.

Sincerely,
The Honourable John Yap
Minister of State for Multiculturalism