British News Agency

Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar issued a message of condolence following the deaths of 10 mountaineers in an avalanche on Broad Peak in the Gilgit-Baltistan region.

In his statement, Dar said, "I am deeply saddened by the loss of 10 mountaineers, including the world-renowned climber Nirmal Purja, in the Broad Peak avalanche."

Dar extended his condolences to the families of the victims as well as to the peoples and governments of China, Nepal, Oman, the United Kingdom and the United States. He also noted that Pakistani mountaineer Sohail Sakhi from Hunza lost his life in the disaster, saying, "His courage and unwavering passion for the high mountains will be remembered with pride."

Dar stated that Pakistan remains committed to search and rescue operations and the repatriation of the victims' remains in close coordination with the diplomatic missions of the concerned countries, adding, "May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace. Amen."