Top world leaders have expressed shock and sorrow over the tragic crash of Air India flight AI 171 in Ahmedabad on Thursday. The London-bound aircraft, carrying 242 people, went down shortly after takeoff near Meghani Nagar, killing passengers and reportedly causing civilian casualties on the ground.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu offered his condolences to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, writing on X:
“To my friend PM Narendra Modi and the people of India, I was saddened to learn of the tragic Air India crash that has taken the lives of 242 men, women, and children. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the fallen.”
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake also posted on X:
“We offer our heartfelt condolences to the families of all those affected onboard. Equally heartbreaking are the civilian casualties on the ground, including young medical students. At this moment of deep sorrow, the people of Sri Lanka stand in solidarity with India.”
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed devastation over the crash, which included one Canadian among the victims. “Canada’s transportation officials are in close contact with counterparts and I am receiving regular updates as the response unfolds,” he said.
The tragedy has cast a shadow over Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visits to Canada for the G7 Summit and a stopover in Cyprus. Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides conveyed his condolences:
“The people of Cyprus mourn with you. In this time of sorrow, we stand by our Indian friends with solidarity and compassion.”
Former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also reacted, writing:
“Akshata and I are deeply shocked and distressed by the news of the Air India tragedy. There is a unique bond between our two nations, and our thoughts go out to the British and Indian families who have lost loved ones.”
At least 169 Indians and 53 British nationals were onboard the flight bound for London Gatwick airport.
Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister Maxime Prevot, who had recently hosted External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, stated:
“This tragedy strikes at the heart of countless families. Belgium stands in solidarity with India and all affected communities.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a message to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi:
“Please accept the deepest condolences. Kindly convey sincere sympathy to the families of the victims and wishes for a speedy recovery to all those injured.”
Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu expressed solidarity with India, writing:
“At this difficult time, the government and people of Maldives stand with India.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also responded:
“My deepest condolences to the families and loved ones grieving this terrible loss. Europe stands in solidarity with India in this moment of sorrow.”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:
“The scenes emerging of a London-bound plane carrying many British nationals crashing in Ahmedabad are devastating. My thoughts are with the passengers and their families.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky added:
“Our thoughts are with all victims’ relatives and close ones in India, the UK, Portugal, and Canada. We all pray for as many lives to be saved as possible and wish a speedy recovery to those injured.”
( With input from agencies )
