Pope Francis on Wednesday issued a plea for assistance for the victims of two strong earthquakes that jolted Syria and Turkey. And called on the international community to continue to support rescue and recovery efforts.

During his weekly catechesis, Pope Francis prayed for the victims and families that have been affected by the devastating earthquake in Syria and Turkey.

Addressing those present, Pope made a call to pray "that these brothers and sisters of ours may move forward in the face of this tragedy."

"I thank those who are offering help and encourage everyone to show solidarity with these countries, some of which have already been battered by a long war," he added at the end of his weekly audience in the Paul VI Hall in the Vatican.

The Pope renewed his closeness to the people of Turkey and Syria on Tuesday with a tweet expressing his closeness in "the midst of this appalling tragedy."

The death toll has already exceeded 15,000, and the figure is expected to grow significantly.