King Charles has joined Prince Albert of Monaco and several European royals in expressing their condolences following the devastating earthquake that has claimed hundreds of lives and left thousands more injured, as messages of solidarity continue to pour in from across the continent.
The British monarch shared a deeply personal statement on behalf of himself and Queen Camilla, saying they were "so dreadfully saddened" by the tragedy and offering support to everyone affected.
© Andrew Milligan - PA Images"My wife and I were so dreadfully saddened to learn of the devastating earthquake that has struck your country, and the tragic loss of life and suffering it has caused," King Charles wrote.
The King also paid tribute to the emergency responders working around the clock while acknowledging the resilience of those facing unimaginable loss.
© The Royal Family"We greatly admire the resilience and strength of the Colombian people, and we send our deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences during this most challenging and distressing period."
Prince Albert and Princess Charlene share message of solidarity:
Earlier, Prince Albert II of Monaco issued an official statement on behalf of himself and Princess Charlene through the Prince's Palace, describing how they learned of the disaster "with profound emotion."
© Palais Princier de MonacoThe sovereign wrote that Monaco stood in complete solidarity with those affected, extending condolences to the families of the victims and compassion to those recovering from their injuries.
The message also noted that the tragedy came just weeks after the deadly earthquakes that struck neighboring Venezuela, another disaster that prompted the Monaco royal family to publicly express its support.
King Harald sends formal letter to Colombia's president:
Norway's King Harald V also responded by sending an official letter of condolence to Colombian President Abelardo Gabriel de la Espriella Otero.
© Photonews"I was deeply saddened by the news of the devastating earthquake...," the Norwegian monarch wrote, before extending his "sincere condolences" on behalf of himself and the Norwegian people and asking that his sympathy be conveyed to the bereaved families and everyone affected by the tragedy.
European royals unite in support:
King Charles, Prince Albert, Princess Charlene and King Harald were not alone in their response. Spain's King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia also issued a heartfelt message of solidarity, expressing support for the victims and concern for those still missing following the disaster.
© Carlos AlvarezWhile each royal household delivered its message in its own way, together they reflected a rare moment of unity, with Europe's monarchs and royal families publicly standing alongside the victims and first responders as rescue and recovery efforts continue.
