Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev expressed gratitude to Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and the people of Kazakhstan for their prompt and professional response following the crash of an AZAL airline aircraft near Aktau, reports the national portal Adyrna.
According to sfera.az, Aliyev stated:
“First of all, I called President Tokayev to express my gratitude. Immediately after the crash, Kazakh rescuers arrived at the scene and began extracting people from the broken fuselage. They risked their lives, knowing there was a possibility of an explosion, but they displayed true bravery nonetheless.”
Responding to journalists’ questions, Aliyev praised the efforts of Kazakh doctors and the compassionate attitude of the entire nation toward the tragedy.
“Our Kazakh brothers and sisters left a deep impression on the hearts of the Azerbaijani people. Ordinary citizens came to our consulate in Aktau, laid flowers, and expressed their solidarity and condolences. This is a true symbol of friendship and brotherhood,” Aliyev said.
He also noted that he had discussed the investigation into the tragedy with President Tokayev, who showed understanding.
“I also extended my condolences to President Tokayev, as six Kazakh citizens lost their lives in the accident. He, in turn, expressed his condolences to me. Despite this tragic event, the bonds of friendship and brotherhood between Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan have grown even stronger,” Aliyev concluded.