ISLAMABAD: Saudi Arabia, Iran, Turkey and several other countries have expressed condolences and solidarity with Pakistan following the devastating fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) that claimed the lives of newborn babies.
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs extended its sincere condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims, as well as the government and people of Pakistan.
“The Kingdom expresses its solidarity with the families of the victims and stands with the government and people of Pakistan in the wake of this tragic incident,” the ministry said.
Saudi Arabia also reaffirmed its support for Pakistan during this time of profound grief and wished the country continued security and safety.
The tragedy occurred after a fire broke out in the Mother and Child Health ward at PIMS, killing at least 14 newborn babies, according to reports. Pakistani authorities have launched an investigation and pledged accountability.
Countries express condolences
Iran and Turkey also conveyed their condolences to Pakistan, expressing sympathy for the bereaved families and solidarity with the government and people of Pakistan.
The British High Commission described the tragedy as heartbreaking and offered its deepest condolences to the parents and families affected.
Turkey’s embassy said it was deeply saddened by the loss of newborn lives and extended heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families.
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France and Spain also expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, while China’s embassy conveyed its condolences and sympathies to the families of the victims.
Nigeria, Syria and Afghanistan also sent messages of solidarity and condolences to Pakistan.
How did the PIMS fire start?
According to reports, the blaze started at around 7am on the third floor of the hospital’s Mother and Child Health ward. Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal said the fire erupted after a blast in an air conditioner, adding that the presence of oxygen in the ward helped the flames spread rapidly.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered an investigation into the incident and suspended the health secretary.
Witnesses and grieving families raised concerns over fire safety arrangements and emergency exits in the ward. However, the federal health minister denied claims that doctors and hospital staff were absent when the fire broke out.
The tragedy is among the deadliest hospital fire incidents in Pakistan in recent years, with condolences and messages of support continuing to arrive from around the world.
