KUALA LUMPUR, June 12 (Bernama) — World leaders have expressed shock and sorrow over the crash of Air India Flight AI171 near Ahmedabad, India, which claimed multiple lives and left scores injured.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the tragedy had “stunned and saddened” the nation. He conveyed his condolences to those affected.
“It is heartbreaking beyond words. My thoughts are with everyone affected,” he posted on X, adding that he has been in contact with ministers and authorities overseeing the response.
Britain’s King Charles III, in a message posted on X, said he and Queen Camilla were “desperately shocked by the terrible events in Ahmedabad.”
“Our special prayers and deepest possible sympathy are with the families and friends of all those affected by this appallingly tragic incident across so many nations, as they await news of their loved ones,” he said.
Air India confirmed that 53 Britons were onboard the ill-fated London-bound plane when it crashed after taking off at 1.38 pm local time, Thursday afternoon.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, described the scenes as “devastating” and said his thoughts were with the passengers and their families during this “deeply distressing time.”
Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim extended condolences on behalf of the government and people of Malaysia to the families and loved ones affected by the tragedy.
“I was deeply distressed to learn of the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171 near Ahmedabad. On behalf of the government and people of Malaysia, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of all those affected,” Anwar said in a Facebook post.
“We share in India’s sorrow and stand in full solidarity as relief efforts continue. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and with everyone mourning this terrible loss,” he added.
In a message to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus also extended his deepest condolences.
“We stand in solidarity with the people and Government of India, and offer our full support in any form,” said Yunus.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in a heartfelt message on X said: “My deepest condolences to the families and loved ones grieving this terrible loss. Dear @narendramodi, Europe stands in solidarity with you and the people of India in this moment of sorrow.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin, in an official telegram published on the Kremlin’s website, expressed “deep condolences on the tragic consequences of the airliner crash at Ahmedabad airport.”
“Please convey words of sincere sympathy and support to the families and friends of the victims, as well as wishes of a swift recovery to all those injured in this catastrophe,” Putin said.
French President Emmanuel Macron said he had learned of the incident “with deep emotion,” and extended “heartfelt thoughts to the victims’ loved ones and to Prime Minister @NarendraModi.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also reacted on X, calling the crash “absolutely devastating.”
“In this time of tragedy, Australia’s thoughts are with everyone affected. Our government is receiving regular updates and we will continue to monitor the situation closely,” he said.
Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin also posted on X: “My thoughts and prayers are with the people of India after the terrible plane crash in Ahmedabad earlier today. Thinking of the families of all those on board, along with the emergency services attending the scene.”
The London-bound flight, carrying 242 people, including 12 crew members, crashed on Thursday shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad airport in the western state of Gujarat.
Authorities in India continue to carry out rescue and relief operations at the crash site in the Meghaninagar residential area, while investigations are under way to determine the cause of the tragedy, according to international media reports.
— BERNAMA