Premier Li Keqiang on April 25 sent a message of condolences to Nepalese Prime Minister Sushil Koirala over a strong earthquake that struck the South Asian country earlier in the day.

In the message, Li said he is deeply saddened by the loss of lives and that many others were injured in the earthquake.

He expressed deep sympathy on behalf of the Chinese government and people to the relatives of the quake victims and the wounded.

Li said Nepal is a close and friendly neighbor of China. The Chinese government is ready to offer urgent support to help Nepal cope with the aftermath of the quake.

He added that, under the leadership of Koirala, the Nepalese government and people would overcome the disaster, and rebuild their homes.