Azerbaijani PM expresses condolences to Kazakh counterpart on mine explosion victims

Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov has sent a letter of condolence to his Kazakh counterpart Alikhan Smailov, Azernews reports.

Asadov noted that he received with deep regret the news of numerous human casualties as a result of the accident at the mine in Karaganda.

The letter expressed deep condolences to the prime minister of Kazakhstan, as well as to the families and close relatives of those who died.

An explosion has taken place at the Kostenko mine in Karaganda region of Kazakhstan.

The number of dead in the explosion has risen to 25.

President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev arrived at the scene. He expressed sincere condolences to the families and friends of the miners, and also instructed to stop investment cooperation with ArcelorMittal Temirtau.

The Prosecutor General's Office of Kazakhstan has launched a criminal investigation into the emergency at the Kostenko mine.

Kazakhstan declared October 29 as the Day of National Mourning.