Georgia “shocked and saddened” by New York attack

Georgian leaders have denounced terrorism and said they stand by the people of New York City after Tuesday’s deadly terror attack.

Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili took to Twitter to express his sorrow.

"[I am] shocked and saddened to learn of the terrible attack in New York City. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families”, he wrote.

Shocked and saddened to learn of terrible attack in New York City. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.

— Giorgi Kvirikashvili (@KvirikashviliGi) October 31, 2017

President Giorgi Margvelashvili released a statement, condemning terrorism.

"I am deeply shocked about the deadly New York City attack. Georgia condemns terrorism and stands with the US government and the American people in solidarity”, he said.

I'm deeply shocked about the deadly #NYCattack. Georgia condemns terrorism & stands with U.S. Government and American people in solidarity.

— President Of Georgia (@MargvelashviliG) November 1, 2017

Eight people were killed and 11 injured when the driver of the truck hit people on a cycle path in Lower Manhattan.

A 29-year-old man, reported to be an Uzbek immigrant, was shot and injured by police as he left the vehicle, BBC reported.

US President Donald Trump has ordered the Department of Homeland Security to "step up" vetting measures in the wake of the attack.

The suspect reportedly shouted "Allahu Akbar" ("God is greatest") as he left the truck. Officials said it was a terror attack.