Prince William in Christchurch offers condolences to Japan, New Zealand (VIDEO)

GlobalPost

Prince William offered his condolences to the people of Japan as he paid tribute to the victims of last month's earthquake which devastated Christchurch, New Zealand.

Speaking at a memorial service for the victims of the Christchurch quake, he spoke of his sympathy and admiration for the people of both New Zealand and Japan, AP reports.

"This community, more than any other in the world, can appreciate the full horror of what is unfolding in Japan," he said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with them, too."

More than 30,000 people attended the national memorial, BBC reports.

The 6.3-magnitude earthquake that hit Christchurch on Feb. 22 killed at least 166 people.

Japan's 9.0 earthquake and subsequent tsunami that struck last Friday is expected to have killed more than 10,000. Hundreds of thousands remain homeless as the nation struggles to provide enough food and supplies to the hardest-hit areas.

William spent two days in Christchurch, touring the disaster-hit city center and suburbs and meeting with residents and relatives of the dead.

The prince will also visit Australia, which experienced terrible flooding.

— Hanna Ingber Win

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