India Thursday offered $ 500,000 (Rs 4.3 crore) aid to help earthquake-hit Vanuatu to reconstruct and rehabilitate days after a strong tremor left the country shattered.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Ministry of External Affairs said: "India extended its deep condolences to the Government and the people of Vanuatu for the damage and destruction caused by this unprecedented disaster and conveyed its readiness to extend all possible support and assistance in this time of difficulty."

"As a close friend and partner under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) and as a gesture of solidarity with the friendly people of Vanuatu, Government of India extends a relief assistance of USD 500,000 to support relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts," the statement said.

The MEA said India firmly stood by Vanuatu 'during times of difficulty and devastation' caused by natural disasters.

"India is committed to Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and continues to be a responsible and steadfast responder in the region," MEA said.

A 7.4 magnitude earthquake hit Vanuatu on December 17.

The earthquake left at least 14 people dead and over 200 others injured.

An international shipping terminal and airport were damaged due to the earthquake and resultant landslides caused by it.