SUVA, Dec. 23 (Xinhua) -- The Republic of Fiji Military Forces have deployed a team to Vanuatu to support recovery efforts following a devastating 7.3-magnitude earthquake that struck the country on Tuesday.

Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka said on Friday that the military team will remain in Vanuatu throughout the Christmas period to assist with the ongoing relief and recovery operations.

The Tuesday earthquake in Vanuatu has killed at least 12 people, injured more than 200 and caused widespread damage, with homes flattened and vehicles destroyed.

Rabuka said the deployment of the military team is part of Fiji's broader commitment to support neighboring nations in times of crisis, as the country stands in solidarity with Vanuatu during its recovery from the devastating earthquake.■