"I was stunned to see the scale of the destruction and deeply moved by the obvious grief and suffering of those who have lost friends and loved ones. As they struggle to deal with the magnitude of the disaster, the prayers of all Canadians are with them. My thoughts at this hour are also with our Indian community here in Canada, which is no doubt anxious for news of family and friends back home. At this time, our government is considering how best we can be of assistance to the recovery and disaster relief effort.

Aline joins me in expressing, on behalf of all Canadians, our deepest condolences to those whose lives have been shattered so suddenly by the loss of loved ones and neighbours."