Azerbaijan President Aliyev Expresses Gratitude to Kazakhstan for Support After AZAL Plane Crash in Aktau
Azerbaijan President Aliyev Expresses Gratitude to Kazakhstan for Search and Rescue Efforts Following Plane Crash
President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has expressed his gratitude to Kazakhstan for the prompt search and rescue measures and emergency aid provided following the crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines plane near Aktau on December 25. The crash resulted in the tragic loss of 39 lives, with 29 passengers surviving the ordeal.
In a phone conversation with Kazakh President Kasym-Jomart Tokayev on December 27, Aliyev discussed the progress of the special state commission investigating the crash and expressed his appreciation for the support extended by Kazakhstan during this difficult time. Both leaders exchanged condolences and assured close cooperation between their governments throughout the investigation process.
Aliyev commended the Kazakh rescuers for their quick response and active participation in the rescue operations. He also thanked the medical personnel in Kazakhstan for their professional care and treatment of the injured passengers, with many already having returned to Azerbaijan while some are still receiving medical attention in Kazakhstan.
The tragic incident involved an Embraer 190 aircraft operated by Azerbaijan Airlines, traveling from Baku to Grozny, which crashed near Aktau. The circumstances surrounding the crash remain unclear, prompting Kazakhstan to set up a special commission to investigate the incident.
Kazakh Transport Minister Marat Karabayev provided a detailed timeline of the events leading up to the crash, highlighting the challenges faced by the flight crew in maintaining control of the aircraft. The investigation is ongoing, with representatives from the aircraft manufacturer in Brazil and experts from Türkiye joining efforts to determine the cause of the accident.
In response to the crash, Azerbaijan Airlines has temporarily suspended flights from Baku to several airports in Russia, citing potential risks to flight safety. The suspension will remain in effect until the completion of the final investigation into the incident.
The solidarity and support shown by Kazakhstan during this difficult time have been instrumental in providing aid and assistance to the survivors and their families. The close collaboration between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan underscores the importance of international cooperation in times of crisis.
