What Support is EAM Jaishankar Offering to UK, Portugal, and Canada After the Air India Plane Crash?

Synopsis
In the wake of the tragic Air India crash that claimed 241 lives, External Affairs Minister Dr. Jaishankar is actively reaching out to international counterparts. His efforts reflect India's commitment to global solidarity during this time of sorrow. Read on to discover more about the international response and the ongoing recovery efforts.
Key Takeaways
- Dr. S. Jaishankar is in touch with international counterparts.
- The crash occurred shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad.
- 241 lives were lost, with one survivor.
- The Indian government is conducting a thorough investigation.
- Emergency services are engaged in ongoing recovery efforts.
New Delhi, June 13 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar is actively engaging with his counterparts from the United Kingdom, Portugal, and Canada following the devastating crash of Air India Flight AI-171 in Ahmedabad, which resulted in the loss of 241 lives.
Jaishankar stated, "In contact with FS @DavidLammy of the UK, FM @PauloRangel_pt of Portugal, and FM @AnitaAnandMP of Canada regarding the Ahmedabad plane disaster. We have expressed our deepest condolences and extended our full support during this tragic time," in a post on X this past Friday.
He had previously shared, "I want to thank all foreign leaders and governments for their condolences regarding the tragic loss of life in the Ahmedabad air crash. We sincerely appreciate this gesture."
The Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, serving Flight AI-171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff on June 12, descending into a densely populated area adjacent to BJ Medical College.
This incident led to the deaths of 241 out of the 242 individuals on board. The only survivor, a British national of Indian descent, is currently receiving medical treatment.
The deceased included 53 British nationals, 7 Portuguese citizens, and 1 Canadian national, marking this tragedy as profoundly international. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is working closely with the affected nations, offering comprehensive assistance in identification, repatriation, and communication with the grieving families.
Recovery operations continue at the crash site, while DNA testing is being conducted at BJ Medical College to identify remains that are too severely damaged for visual identification.
Many families from various parts of India, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh, are still awaiting confirmation regarding their loved ones.
The Indian government has committed to a thorough investigation into what is now recognized as one of the most catastrophic aviation disasters in recent Indian history.
Officials from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Air India are collaborating with international organizations to ascertain the cause of the crash.