Singapore "stands in solidarity" with Malaysia: MFA statement on MH17

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Singapore stands ready to offer any possible assistance, following the crash of the aeroplane in Ukraine.

• PHOTOS
  

A woman reacts to news regarding a Malaysia Airlines plane that crashed in eastern Ukraine at Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang, Malaysia. (AP/Joshua Paul)

SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs called for a “full and transparent” investigation into the crash of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, and reaffirmed that Singapore “stands in solidarity” with its neighbouring country.

The MFA statement issued on Friday (July 18), in full, reads as follows:

Singapore is shocked and saddened to learn of the tragic crash of Malaysia Airlines (MAS) flight MH17 on 17 July 2014. The Government and people of Singapore send our deepest condolences to the families of the victims in this time of profound grief. We also stand in solidarity with the Government and people of Malaysia during this difficult period.

It is important that a full and transparent investigation take place to establish what caused the crash. The investigation team should be given full access to the affected areas and evidence. We stand ready to offer any possible assistance.

At this point, there have been no reports of Singaporean victims. MFA remains in close contact with MAS and the relevant airport authorities to ascertain the nationality of the unverified passengers. Singaporeans who require consular assistance should contact the MFA Duty Office (24-hours) at 6379 8800, 6379 8855 (24 hours); by fax at 6476 7302; or via email at mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sg

In a Facebook post and Twitter post on Friday afternoon, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said he had just called Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak to offer his condolences and Singapore’s assistance in the crash.

- CNA/es

Singapore "stands in solidarity" with Malaysia: MFA statement on MH17