RIO DE JANEIRO - Chinese Premier Li Keqiang sent condolences Wednesday to Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos over a deadly landslide in the northwest of the South American country.

In a message, Li said he was shocked by the news of the tragedy, which has taken dozens of lives. He mourned the dead and sent condolences to bereaved families.

Li expressed the belief that the Colombian people will soon rebuild their homes under the leadership of Santos, adding that the Chinese government stands ready to provide necessary aid.

The landslide took place in the early hours of Monday after heavy rains, killing at least 78 people.