Chinese President Xi Jinping on March 11 sent messages of condolence respectively to his Ethiopian and Kenyan counterparts, Sahle-Work Zewde and Uhuru Kenyatta, over the plane crash that killed 157 people on March 10.

In his messages, Xi said he was shocked to hear about the crash of the Ethiopian Airlines plane and the massive casualties it caused, including Ethiopian, Kenyan and Chinese victims.

On behalf of the Chinese Government, the Chinese people and in his own name, he expressed deep mourning for the victims and extended his condolences to the bereaved families.

Xi said that he believes the Ethiopian Government is capable of properly handling the aftermath of the tragedy. He added that China would provide any necessary support and assistance.

Also on March 11, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang sent a message to his Ethiopian counterpart, Abiy Ahmed, offering his condolences over the plane crash.