Turkey extends condolences to Japan, condemns Tunisia attack

ANKARA

Turkey’s Foreign Minister on July 8 extended condolences to the families of the victims of the floods and landslides in Japan’s west and condemned a deadly attack in Tunisia’s west.

“My heartfelt condolences to the Japanese government and the families of the victims of the floods in the Hiroshima prefecture that killed at least 60 people. I wish a speedy recovery to those injured,” Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu said in a Twitter message.

At least 60 people were dead and dozens of others were missing after torrential rains caused flooding and landslides across central and western parts of Japan.

An order to evacuate was given for more than two million people.

Throughout the hard-hit areas, rivers swelled and parked cars sat in pools of water. Japan has sent troops, firefighters, police and other disaster relief. People have also taken to social media to plead for help.

Ministry condemns Tunisia attack

Also on July 8, Turkey condemned a militant attack in western Tunisia that killed at least six security personnel.

“We have learned with deep sorrow about the terrorist attack today in the governorate of Jendouba, Tunisia, which resulted in the loss of six border guards,” the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

“We condemn this heinous attack. We wish Allah’s mercy upon those who lost their lives and extend our condolences to the brotherly people and friendly Government of Tunisia,” the statement added.

The ministry also said Turkey would “continue to stand in solidarity with Tunisia in its fight against terrorism.”

The National Guard’s patrol was ambushed in the northwestern Jendouba province near the Algerian border on July 8, the Tunisian Interior Ministry said.

The ministry said a manhunt has been launched for the terrorist group responsible for the attack as no group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.