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PAKISTANI leaders joined the rest of the world on Thursday in expressing condolences for the victims after a London-bound Air India flight crashed shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad.
“The tragedy in Ahmedabad has stunned and saddened us,” Indian PM Narendra Modi posted on X. “In this sad hour, my thoughts are with everyone affected by it. Have been in touch with Ministers and authorities who are working to assist those affected.”
The disaster prompted an immediate wave of sympathy from allies and adversaries alike, all expressing solidarity with the victims’ families and the Indian people
Leaders from across Pakistan’s political spectrum set aside longstanding tensions to offer support.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said he was saddened by the news. “We extend our condolences to the families of the victims grieving this immense loss,” he wrote in a post on social media platform X. “Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar also expressed his condolences over the loss of precious lives. “Saddened at the crash of Air India flight in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Condolences over the loss of precious lives in this tragic incident.” he wrote on X, extending his sympathies with the families of the victims in this hour of grief
Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari also shared his grief on social media. “Saddened to hear a tragic incident occurred earlier today,” the former foreign minister posted. “I express my profound condolences to the people of India.”
Expressing his grief over the tragic incident, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Defence Khawaja Asif said, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic crash of #AirIndia Flight AI171 near Ahmedabad today. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families and loved ones of all aboard. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected”
Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif described the crash as a “devastating loss that transcends borders and reminds us of our shared humanity,” offering his deepest sympathies to Prime Minister Modi and the Indian people.
World offers solidarity
The shock was particularly acute in London, the flight’s intended destination. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the news “devastating”, noting the plane was “carrying many British nationals.”
Britain’s King Charles issued a message on X, saying, “My wife and I have been desperately shocked by the terrible events… Our special prayers and deepest possible sympathy are with the families and friends of all those affected.”
From across Europe, messages of support poured in. The Vatican released a telegram message in which Pope Leo XIV expressed his “heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives”.
European Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen told Modi, “Europe stands in solidarity with you and the people of India”.
French President Emmanuel Macron also extended his nation’s “heartfelt thoughts to the victims’ loved ones”.
Russian President Vladimir Putin offered his “deep condolences on the tragic consequences” and asked that “words of sincere sympathy and support” be conveyed to the families of the victims.
From Washington, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio offered his prayers in a post on X. “Heartbroken to hear the news of a tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad, India. My prayers are with all who lost their loved ones in this horrible incident.”
Leaders of other countries also reacted with shock. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said he was “devastated” to learn of the crash, which included one Canadian citizen.
In Australia, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the news “absolutely devastating.”
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni used X to convey solidarity with the Indian people. “On behalf of the Italian Government and myself, I express sincere condolences to the victims’ families and stand with the Indian people in this moment of great sorrow.”
Neighbouring countries and other partners also expressed their sorrow.
Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus said, “We stand in solidarity with the people and Government of India, and offer our full support in any form.”
From Dublin, Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin said, “My thoughts and prayers are with the people of India after the terrible plane crash… Thinking of the families of all those on board.”
Published in Dawn, June 13th, 2025
