MOSCOW (Sputnik) – Russia has offered assistance to China after a powerful explosion occurred in the northeast Chinese port city of Tianjin, killing dozens of people.
"We have offered humanitarian aid and assistance. The issue is currently under consideration by our Chinese colleagues," Russian Emergencies Minister Vladimir Puchkov told journalists on Friday, adding that specialized Russian rescue teams remain on high alert.
The offer was made within the framework of a bilateral agreement on cooperation in the emergencies sphere, according to Puchkov.
"We have not received a request from our Chinese colleagues yet, but Russia, represented by the Emergencies Ministry, is ready to provide all the necessary help and support," the minister stressed.
Hundreds of people in Tianjin were wounded as a result of the massive explosions, while 50 have been confirmed dead.
More than 1,000 firefighters were sent to the scene, and search and rescue efforts are still underway.
