President Mahinda Rajapaksa sent the following message of condolence the Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on the grevious loss of life in the Air India crash at Mangalore earlier today.

Excellency,

The news of the grievous loss of life arising out of the aircraft crash in Mangalore early this morning has deeply saddened me and the people of my country.

On behalf of the Government and people of Sri Lanka, I offer sincere condolences to the families who lost loved ones in this accident. Our thoughts and prayers are with those injured and all the people of India on this difficult day.

Please accept Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.

Mahinda Rajapaksa

President