Estonian MPs extend condolences to Azerbaijan over AZAL plane crash

Members of the Estonian-Azerbaijani Parliamentary Friendship Group have expressed their heartfelt condolences to the people of Azerbaijan following the tragic plane crash on December 25.

In a joint statement, the group extended their solidarity and sympathies to the families of the victims, Caliber.Az reports, citing the parliamentary group's website.

"Members of the Estonian-Azerbaijani parliamentary group express their deep condolences to the people of Azerbaijan in their grief over the tragic plane crash that occurred on December 25. We feel solidarity with the people of Azerbaijan and express our condolences to the families of the deceased. We support an immediate investigation to determine the circumstances of the plane crash," the joint statement reads.

The parliamentary group, which fosters bilateral ties between Estonia and Azerbaijan, is chaired by Riina Solman, with Maria Jufereva-Skuratovski serving as vice-chairperson. Other members include Jaak Aab, Vadim Belobrovtsev, Züleixa Izmailova, Aleksei Jevgrafov, Ester Karuse, Toomas Kivimägi, Aivar Kokk, Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart, Lauri Laats, Andres Metsoja, Eduard Odinets, Heljo Pikhof, Juku-Kalle Raid, Urmas Reinsalu, Aivar Sõerd, and Hendrik Johannes Terras.

The Estonian-Azerbaijani parliamentary group, part of Estonia's Riigikogu, plays a crucial role in promoting inter-parliamentary relations, advancing foreign policy objectives, and strengthening Estonia's international engagement.

An investigation into the causes of the plane crash is expected to provide clarity on the incident that has deeply impacted Azerbaijan.

The devastating incident occurred on December 25, when an AZAL passenger plane, en route from Baku to Grozny, crashed near Aktau. Out of the 67 individuals on board, 38 lost their lives, while 29 survived the crash.

By Khagan Isayev