The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has condoled the loss of lives in the Soma coal mines in western Turkey.

In a message to Mr. Abdullah Gul, the President of Republic of Turkey, the President has said, "On behalf of the Government and the people of India, I write to express deepest condolences on the loss of lives and destruction caused by the devastating accident that has occurred in the Soma coal mine in western Turkey.

I understand that search efforts are ongoing. The people of India stand by the people of Turkey in this difficult hour and wish all success to those rendering the rescue and relief operations”.