Indian PM sends condolence message to Gilani

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has sent a message of condolence to his Pakistan counterpart Yousuf Raza Gilani over the air crash near Islamabad, saying he was deeply grieved over the tragic incident.

"I was deeply grieved to learn of the air tragedy near Islamabad," Singh said in his message to Gilani.

"I convey my deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in this unfortunate incident. I pray that the almighty will grant them the strength to bear their loss," he said.

Referring to Bhoja air crash while the plane was approaching Islamabad Airport for landing last evening, killing all 127 people on board, Singh wrote to Gilani, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Pakistan in this time of grief,".