Azerbaijan extends condolences to North Macedonia over deadly nightclub fire

The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry has expressed condolences to North Macedonia in connection with the fire that caused human casualties.

“Deeply saddened by the news on devastating fire in Kočani, North Macedonia that has claimed the lives of dozens,” Caliber.Az quotes the ministry as saying on its X page.

The ministry expressed sympathy over the deadly tragedy: “We offer our sincerest condolences to all those affected by this heartbreaking loss, and we hope for a quick and full recovery for those who have been injured.”

To recall, in the early hours of March 16, a massive nightclub fire killed 51 people in North Macedonia’s eastern town of Kocani, and injured more than 100, Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski said during a press conference.

The blaze erupted during a concert by a local pop group, with Toshkovski stating that pyrotechnics ignited the roof. Videos from inside the club captured scenes of panic as thick smoke filled the venue, with musicians urging attendees to flee.

Emergency responders transported the injured to hospitals across the country, including in the capital, Skopje, with many suffering severe burns. Volunteer organizations have joined the relief efforts.

Health Minister Arben Taravari reported that 118 people have been hospitalized, noting that neighboring countries have extended offers of assistance.

By Khagan Isayev