Georgia condemns terror attack at Berlin Christmas market

Nine people have been killed at a Christmas market in Germany’s capital Berlin, leaving Georgia condemning the "heinous attack".

German authorities said a large truck ploughed into a busy Christmas market in the heart of Berlin, killing nine people and injuring many more.

The Embassy of Georgia to Germany said there were no Georgian citizens reported among the victims.

Georgia’s Prime Minister posted a heartfelt statement on Twitter offering his condolences to victims.

Outraged by the heinous attack on Christmas market in #Berlin. Our prayers are with the victims and their families.

— Giorgi Kvirikashvili (@KvirikashviliGi) December 19, 2016

Meanwhile Georgia's Foreign Ministry also commented on the horrific attack in Berlin.

Horrified by the attack on innocent civilians in #Berlin.Extend deepest condolences 2families of victims.We stand by #Germany@GermanyDiplo

— MFA of Georgia (@MFAgovge) December 19, 2016

Georgian citizens in Germany can phone the hotline of Georgia's Embassy in Berlin for assistance or information. The number is +49 (0) 162 88 55 303.

Georgian citizens can also phone the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tbilisi, which operates 24 hours a day. The number is (+995 32) 294 5050.

Meanwhile German police believe the lorry incident was a deliberate attack. Video of the incident shows stalls knocked over and people lying injured on the ground, the BBC reported.

The suspected driver of the lorry has been arrested while the suspected co-driver was found dead, police said.

Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman, Steffen Seibert, tweeted to say: "We are in mourning for the dead and hope that the many injured can get help."