Rescue workers search for earthquake victims in Minami-Aso, Kumamoto on April 17. (Source: AFP/VNA)

The statement read: "ASEAN countries are deeply saddened by the recent earthquakes in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Ecuador, India, Japan, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan, which have caused numerous casualties and significant material damage. ASEAN expresses its deepest sympathy and condolences to the governments and people of the affected countries, especially the families of the victims of these earthquakes."

ASEAN affirms its readiness to expand cooperation and provide support in all possible forms to contribute to the efforts of the governments and people of the affected countries to overcome this difficult time and recover as soon as possible.

The ASEAN statement was issued after several earthquakes occurred in the aforementioned countries since the beginning of April, claiming the lives of hundreds of people and causing serious material damage.

According to the latest figures, the earthquake this morning, April 17th (Vietnam time), in Ecuador has killed at least 77 people and injured nearly 600.

Meanwhile, in Japan, rescue teams are racing against time to find victims of the two powerful earthquakes that struck within the past three days. To date, the death toll in Japan has been confirmed at 41.

According to Vietnam+