Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid has offered condolences following the earthquake in the Aegean Sea, that rocked parts of Greece on Friday.

In a message to his counterpart in the Hellenic Republic, Nikolaos-Georgios Dendias, FM Shahid extended condolence following loss of lives, injuries, and devastation caused by the earthquake and sea surges near Samos, Greece.

The people and government of Maldives joins in extending heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families as well as those affected by the disaster, reads the statement.

FM Shahid expressed hope that the rescue and recovery operations continue smoothly and prayed for strength and fortitude for the friendly people of Greece.

International media reports that at least 14 individuals were killed in Turkey, and Greece, after the seven-magnitude rocked the region on Friday afternoon. Greek officials have reported that the earthquake was at a 6.7 magnitude.

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.

Further, international media also reported that two teenagers were killed after being crushed under a collapsing wall, in Samos, eight more were injured. Floods occurred in the port of Samos and buildings were also left damaged in its wake.