President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has sent a message of condolence to Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez Pérez-Castejón following a deadly high-speed train collision in southern Spain.

In his message, the President expressed deep concern and sorrow over the tragic incident, which claimed lives and left many others injured. He conveyed condolences to the Government and people of Spain on behalf of the Government and people of the Maldives, and extended sympathies to the bereaved families.

President Dr Muizzu also wished those injured a swift recovery and expressed hope for the success of ongoing rescue and recovery efforts.

At least 39 people were killed and dozens more injured after two express trains derailed near the town of Adamuz, approximately 360 kilometres south of Madrid. The collision caused several carriages to overturn, with the front sections of one train plunging down an embankment.

The incident involved a northbound high-speed train operated by private rail company Iryo, travelling from Malaga to Madrid, and a southbound train operated by state-owned Renfe, en route from Madrid to Huelva. The rear carriages of the Malaga-to-Madrid service were struck by the front carriages of the opposing train.

Spanish authorities have reported that 122 people were treated for injuries, with 48 remaining in hospital. Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez visited the scene and pledged to establish the cause of the crash, announcing three days of national mourning.