Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdulla Shahid has offered condolences to his counterpart in Turkey, following the destructive earthquake that rocked the Aegean Sea on Friday.

In his message of sympathy to the Foreign Minister of Turkey, Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, FM Shahid extended deepest condolences to the loss of lives and massive destruction caused by the earthquake and tsunami in Izmir, Turkey.

The Maldives minister stated that he will keep the brotherly people of Turkey in his prayers, during this difficult time.

Expressing deep sorrow in learning of the news of lives lost, injuries caused and damage inflicted on property in Izmir due to the earthquake and tsunami in the Aegean Sea, FM Shahid expressed hope that the rescue and recovery operations continue smoothly and pray for strength and fortitude for the brother people of Turkey.

The government and people of Maldives join in extending heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and those directly as well as indirectly affected by this calamity, during this time of national tragedy.

International media reports that at least 14 individuals were killed in Turkey, and Greece, after the seven-magnitude rocked the region on Friday afternoon.

The earthquake brought down buildings and also triggered a slight tsunami, photos circulating following the calamity show crushed vehicles and people “digging” through the rubble for possible survivors.