Turkmenistan condemns deadly concert hall attack in Moscow

By Davit Kachkachishvili

ASHGABAT (AA) - Turkmenistan's Foreign Ministry issued on Saturday a condemnation message after Friday's terrorist attack at a concert hall in the Russian capital Moscow.

The statement noted Turkmenistan's "strong condemnation" of the attack, offering condolences and support to the families and friends of the deceased.

It also expressed wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured.

Earlier, chairman of the People's Council of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow held a phone talk with Valentina Matviyenko, the head of the Russian upper chamber of parliament, according to the ministry.

Berdimuhamedov conveyed his condolences to Matviyenko on behalf of himself and the president of Turkmenistan regarding the terrorist attack in Moscow.

He also extended sympathy and support messages to the families and relatives of the victims.

Gunmen opened fire at concertgoers late Friday, killing at least 133 people and injuring 145 others. The attack took place as the rock band Picnic was about to perform at the Crocus City Hall just west of Moscow.

Russian authorities have arrested 11 people in connection with the attack, including four directly involved, according to the Federal Security Service.