Azerbaijani defence minister offers condolences to Pakistan’s general

The Azerbaijani Defence Ministry has announced that Defence Minister, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov expressed condolences to Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee of Pakistan, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza. 

"I am deeply saddened by the news of those killed and injured in the terrorist attack near the railway station in Quetta, Balochistan province, Pakistan. We strongly condemn all forms of terrorism. I pray for the souls of those who lost their lives in the explosion, share in the sorrow of their relatives, extend my heartfelt condolences to their families, and wish a swift recovery to all the injured," the condolence message reads, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

At least 26 people have been killed and more than 60 others wounded in a bombing at a busy railway station in Pakistan’s unstable Balochistan province, according to police and health officials.  

The blast occurred on November 9 as nearly 100 passengers were waiting on the platform in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan, around 8:45 (GMT+5) for a train to Peshawar.  

“The death toll from the powerful blast has risen to 26,” said Wasim Baig, a spokesperson for Balochistan’s health department.  

Baig also mentioned that more than a dozen soldiers and six railway workers were among the victims, while 62 people were injured, many of whom are in critical condition.  

Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest and poorest province, is rich in natural resources and has long been a hotspot for separatist militant activity. It shares borders with both Afghanistan and Iran and has frequently been targeted by deadly attacks.

By Naila Huseynova