Georgian leaders saddened by Istanbul blasts, condemn terrorism

Georgia is saddened by last night’s terrorist attack in the heart of Turkey’s biggest city Istanbul, which reportedly killed 38 people and left many more injured.

Georgia's Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili condemned the brutal violence and extended his condolences to the families of those killed and injured in the attack.

"I strongly condemn all forms of violence that claim the lives of civilians and aims to terror them,” he said in a statement.

We stand by those countries that fight terrorism. We join their efforts and believe that only our joint efforts can defeat this biggest cruelty.”

Strongly condemn the attack in #Istanbul. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.

— Giorgi Kvirikashvili (@KvirikashviliGi) December 10, 2016

The President of Georgia Giorgi Margvelashvili issued a separate statement condemning terrorism and offering sympathy to the victims. 

I express my deepest sorrow about the two bomb explosions in Istanbul. Georgia strongly condemns such brutal acts of violence and terrorism,” Margvelashvili said.

I express my deepest sorrow about the 2 bomb explosions in #Istanbul. Georgia strongly condemns such brutal acts of violence and terrorism.

— President Of Georgia (@MargvelashviliG) December 11, 2016

Meanwhile Georgia’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement containing hotline numbers for Georgian citizens in Turkey. Several hours ago when the hotlines were opened, the Foreign Ministry said "at this stage Turkey says there are no Georgian citizens among those injured”.

The BBC reported a twin bomb attack on police officers outside a football stadium in Istanbul killed 38 people and left dozens injured.