Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel has sent a message of condolence to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio following a fatal midair collision near Washington, D.C.

The incident, involving American Eagle Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport, resulted in the deaths of all passengers and crew members on board.

In his message, Minister Dr Khaleel expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences on behalf of the Maldivian Government and people. He offered sympathies to the bereaved families and reaffirmed the Maldives’ solidarity with the United States during this time of mourning.