Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid has sent a message of condolence to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi, following the earthquake in northern Pakistan.

"It was with deep shock and sadness that I learnt about the powerful earthquake that struck northern Pakistan yesterday, leading to the loss of innocent lives, injuring hundreds and destroying homes and infrastructure," the message read.

He added that the Government and the people of the Maldives, joined him in sending heartfelt sympathies to the Government and the people of Pakistan.

The death toll from the earthquake that struck Pakistani Kashmir jumped to 37 on Wednesday, as families mourned relatives and rescue teams sent supplies to the area.