Xi sends condolences over deadly Angola flooding

President Xi Jinping extended a message of sympathy to Angolan President Joao Lourenco on Friday over the deadly flooding that led to major casualties and losses in the country in southern Africa.

Xi said he was shocked to learn that heavy rains have hit Luanda, the country's capital and most populous city, and other regions, resulting in major casualties and property loss.

On behalf of the Chinese government and people, the president expressed deep condolences over those who lost their lives and expressed sincere sympathies to their families as well as to the injured and disaster-hit residents.

He said he believes the African nation will get over this difficult period and rebuild homes for its residents.

At least 54 people died and more than 450 were injured due to the rain and flooding over a 30-day period ending on April 21, according to the Angola Press Agency.

As part of disaster relief efforts, CITIC Construction, a Chinese State-owned enterprise, signed an agreement with authorities in Luanda to offer its vocational training school as a temporary shelter for families hit by the floods, Xinhua News Agency reported.

Under the agreement, besides providing shelter, the vocational school will also offer essential supplies such as bedding, mattresses, clean water and food.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Angola, which is Beijing's second-largest trading partner in Africa. Trade between the two countries grew by 16.3 percent year-on-year to $27.34 billion last year.