Foreign Minister Ferit Hoxha has expressed condolences for those killed or injured in an explosion at a steel plant in Turkey’s Izmir province. In a social media statement on Tuesday, he offered sympathy to families who lost loved ones and expressed Albania’s solidarity with Turkey.

Hoxha said he was deeply saddened by the loss of life and the injuries caused by the blast. He extended his sincere condolences to the bereaved families and said his thoughts were with everyone affected by the tragedy. He also reaffirmed Albania’s solidarity with the Turkish people and government during this difficult time.

Media reports said the explosion killed 17 people and injured 12 others. The blast occurred on Monday at the Habas Demir Celik plant in Aliaga, near the port city of Izmir. All those killed or injured were plant employees.

/a.p./