Azerbaijani embassies worldwide serve as sites for tributes following fatal plane crash

Tributes and condolences continue to flood in from around the world following the tragic crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) Embraer 190 passenger plane on 25 December. The flight, en route from Baku to Grozny, went down near the Kazakh city of Aktau, claiming the lives of 38 passengers and crew, while 29 survived.

In the aftermath of the incident, Azerbaijan declared a national day of mourning on 26 December. Flags were lowered, and condolence books were opened at Azerbaijani embassies and missions worldwide, allowing dignitaries, diplomats, and organisations to pay their respects, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

UN and UNESCO officials extend support

UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed visited Azerbaijan’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York and conveyed her heartfelt condolences. Sharing her sentiments on X (formerly Twitter), she wrote:
"Our heartfelt condolences to the Government of Azerbaijan and the families of those lost in the tragic plane crash. We stand with you in this time of grief and pray for healing and a full recovery for the survivors."

Meanwhile, in Paris, UNESCO Deputy Director-General Firmin Edouard Matoko met with Azerbaijan’s Permanent Representative to UNESCO, Elman Abdullayev, and expressed his sympathies on behalf of the organisation. Mr. Matoko also signed the condolence book at the mission.

European nations join in mourning

Ireland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed sorrow over the incident, stating on X:
"We were saddened to hear of the tragic crash of the Azerbaijani Airlines plane in Kazakhstan. We extend our sincere condolences to all those who have lost loved ones. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims."

Similar gestures of solidarity were observed at Azerbaijani embassies across Europe and beyond, where flags flew at half-mast, and condolence books welcomed messages from officials and citizens.

Diplomatic outreach in the Middle East and Africa

In Israel, over 60 diplomatic missions sent letters of condolence to Azerbaijan, and ambassadors visited the Azerbaijani Embassy to pay their respects. A condolence book opened at the embassy provided a platform for tributes.

Algeria also honoured the victims. Salma Bakhta Mansouri, Algeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, visited Azerbaijan’s Embassy in Algiers to extend condolences on behalf of the Algerian government. Aribi Abdulbaset, Chairman of the Algeria–Azerbaijan Friendship Group, expressed sympathy on behalf of Algeria’s parliament.

Support across the Americas

Books of condolence were opened at Azerbaijan’s embassies in Mexico, Colombia, and Peru. Diplomatic missions, local officials, and members of the Azerbaijani diaspora visited the embassies to leave messages of support. Electronic condolence messages were also received from state institutions and international organisations.

Azerbaijan mourns as the world stands in solidarity

The tragic crash has united the international community in grief, with global leaders, organisations, and individuals offering their prayers and support to Azerbaijan. As investigations into the crash continue, the victims and their families remain at the forefront of global compassion.

By Vugar Khalilov