UN chief saddened by loss of life in Guatemala volcano eruption

UNITED NATIONS, June 4 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life and significant damage caused by Sunday's eruption of the Fuego volcano in Guatemala, his spokesman said Monday.

The United Nations stands in solidarity with Guatemala and is ready to support the national rescue and relief efforts, said Stephane Dujarric, the spokesman.

The secretary-general extended his sincere condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and people of Guatemala. He wished a speedy recovery to those injured, the spokesman said in a statement.

At least 33 people have been confirmed dead in the most violent eruption of the Fuego volcano in more than four decades.