PM mourns loss of lives in China coal mine blast

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has expressed deep shock over the loss of lives in a coal mine explosion in China's Shanxi province.

In a condolence message on Sunday, May 24, the prime minister extended his sympathies, and those of his government and the people of Bangladesh, to the bereaved families and the people of China.

"Our prayers are with the rescue teams working tirelessly to locate survivors and the injured," the prime minister said. "Bangladesh stands by China in this time of distress and applauds your ongoing efforts to assist the affected, treat the wounded and investigate the accident."

The prime minister prayed for patience, courage and solace for all those affected by the accident.

At least 90 people were killed in a gas explosion at a coal mine in northern China's Shanxi province on Friday evening, May 22. Chinese state media reported that 247 miners were working inside the mine at the time of the accident.