President of the Maldives, Dr Mohamed Muizzu, has expressed his condolences to the government and people of Guatemala following a devastating bus crash that claimed multiple lives.

In a message to Guatemalan president César Bernardo Arévalo de León, President Dr Muizzu conveyed his deep sorrow over the tragedy, offering sympathies to the bereaved families and all those affected. He also reaffirmed the Maldives’ solidarity with Guatemala during this period of mourning.

The accident occurred on Sunday when a passenger bus veered off a highway bridge in San José Pinula, a municipality approximately 21 kilometres east of Guatemala City. According to local authorities, the vehicle plunged around 40 metres (131 feet) into a ravine, resulting in at least 19 fatalities and leaving more than 30 people injured. Emergency responders, including firefighters and medical teams, worked tirelessly at the scene to rescue survivors and recover the bodies of those who lost their lives.

In response, President Arévalo declared three days of national mourning to honour the victims. In an official statement, he expressed his condolences to the affected families and pledged a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports indicate that excessive speed and possible mechanical failure may have played a role in the accident.

President Dr Muizzu’s message of support makes evident the Maldives’ commitment to international solidarity in times of crisis.