Pashinyan sends condolences to Kazakhstan over naval exercise deaths

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan sent a condolence letter to the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, following the loss of life in a tragic incident during naval exercises.

"It was with deep sorrow that I learned of the loss of life resulting from a tragic incident during a naval exercise conducted by the Naval Forces of the Republic of Kazakhstan,” Pashinyan said in the letter published by his office.

“On behalf of the Republic of Armenia, I extend my deepest condolences and solidarity to you, the families and relatives of the servicemen who lost their lives, as well as to the friendly people of Kazakhstan. In this difficult moment, we share your grief and wish you strength and fortitude. I wish a speedy recovery to the injured serviceman and hope that the missing servicemen will be found safe and sound as soon as possible."

According to Kazakh state media, the incident occurred on September 24 during naval drills on the Caspian Sea coast. Seventeen servicemen were swept into the sea after weather conditions deteriorated sharply and winds strengthened. According to the latest reports, 14 of the servicemen died, while the others were rescued. September 25 has been declared a day of national mourning in Kazakhstan.