Brussels - The European Union said Wednesday it was ready to provide humanitarian help to Pakistan following an earthquake in the south-west of the country that has killed at least 160 people and has left thousands more homeless.

"I was shocked to hear the news about the earthquake which struck south-western Balochistan earlier today," EU external affairs commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner said.

"The EU stands ready to assist Pakistan with humanitarian assistance if requested," the commissioner said in a statement.

According to officials in Pakistan, a strong earthquake measuring 6.4 on the Richter scale rattled the province of Balochistan during the early hours of the morning, destroying scores of homes.

At the request of third countries, the EU executive provides emergency aid, food and help to refugees and displaced people who fall victim of natural disasters or armed conflict through its humanitarian aid department, known as ECHO.

ECHO's annual grants total more than 700 million euros (900 million dollars). (dpa)