The Minister of Education and Science of Georgia, Mikheil Chkhenkeli, sent a letter of condolence to his Turkish counterpart, the Minister of National Education of the Republic of Turkey, Mahmut Özer, due to the tragedy that happened in the country.

Mikheil Chkhenkeli: "I am deeply saddened by the natural disaster that took place in Turkey, which claimed the lives of many people. It is impossible to convey through words the tragedy that is happening today in the disaster zone. Losing people's lives is truly an irreparable loss and a great pain for the country.

I would like to express my heartfelt support on behalf of the Ministry of Education and Science of Georgia in these difficult moments. I personally, each and every one of us, the whole of Georgia stand by you and we will do everything possible to help the population affected by the natural disaster.

The government of Georgia continues to support its friendly country – and owing to the decision of the Prime Minister of Georgia - Mr. Irakli Gharibashvili, one million GEL was allocated from the government's reserve fund to provide humanitarian aid to the population affected by the natural disaster in the Republic of Turkey. The aforementioned amount will be used for the purchase of medicines, food, clothes, medical equipment and other necessities for the citizens affected by the earthquake.

Today, it is significantly vital to make joint efforts and work together to take care of the needs of the earthquake victims and offer them assistance. Georgian firemen and rescuers are still actively involved in the rescue operations and are tirelessly fighting to save people's lives at the disaster site.

Once again, I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the Turkish people and express my sincere condolences to the families and relatives of those who died as a result of the earthquake and wish the injured citizens a speedy and swift recovery."