"The president noted that a US search and rescue team was on its way to New Zealand, and said the United States was ready to provide whatever further support was needed in this difficult time," the statement read.
Obama also "underscored the close and enduring friendship" between the United States and New Zealand.
Key in turn "described the determination of the people of Christchurch and New Zealand in the face of this tragedy," and thanked Obama for the US support.
Tuesday's shallow, 6.3-magnitude earthquake in New Zealand, the country's worst natural disaster in 80 years, left nearly 400 people dead or missing.
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Obama also "underscored the close and enduring friendship" between the United States and New Zealand.
Key in turn "described the determination of the people of Christchurch and New Zealand in the face of this tragedy," and thanked Obama for the US support.
Tuesday's shallow, 6.3-magnitude earthquake in New Zealand, the country's worst natural disaster in 80 years, left nearly 400 people dead or missing.
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