Georgia’s PM dismayed by terrorist act in Ankara

Georgia’s Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili is "dismayed” by the terrorist acts that took place in Turkey’s capital Ankara today, claiming more than 80 lives and injuring at least 180 others.

This evening Prime Minister Garibashvili offered his condolences to the victims’ families and the wider Turkish nation.

I wish them to stand strong in such a difficult time.”

Terrorism is the biggest evil that has no boundaries. No country is capable of coping with this international threat alone,” said Garibashvili.

He added the whole world should stand together and fight against terrorism.

According to Turkish officials, two explosions were detonated at a peace rally in Ankara shortly after 10am. The blasts took place near the city’s central train station as people gathered for a peace march organised by left-wing groups. The rally was due to start at midday.

Latest official figures stated at least 86 people were killed in the explosions and a further 186 were injured.

Television footage of the protest, explosion and aftermath showed scenes of panic and people lying on the ground covered in blood, amid protest banners.

The attack is understood to be the deadliest ever of its kind on Turkish soil.

The BBC reported Turkey’s Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said there was evidence that two suicide bombers had carried out the attacks. He also announced three days of national mourning.

The Ankara rally was demanding an end to the violence between the Kurdish separatists and the Turkish government.