Taipei, Feb. 24 (CNA) A Taiwanese student was still listed as missing after a powerful earthquake hit Christchurch, New Zealand, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) spokesman James Chang said Thursday.
A 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck the city of Christchurch Tuesday morning, Taiwan time, killing at least 98 people. About 120 people have been pulled out of collapsed buildings, but over 200 still remain missing.
The Taiwanese was among a group of foreign students who were reportedly trapped under the collapsed Canterbury TV building, according to New Zealand media. New Zealand police have said that the building was "not survivable" and they have abandoned all hope of finding survivors.
Speaking to the media, Chang said the student remained listed as missing after attempts by Taiwanese officials in Christchurch to make contact with the student via mobile phone failed. The student was also not at home when officials paid a visit to the student's residence.
Chang declined to disclose the identity of the student, citing privacy.
The MOFA has been in contact with the student's family in Taiwan and will provide any assistance if necessary, he said. (By Chris Wang) enditem/ly