The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, has sent a message to the Pakistani Prime Minister, Yusuf Raza Gilani, condoling the loss of lives in the air tragedy near Islamabad this evening. Following is the text of the Prime Minister's message:

"I was deeply grieved to learn of the air tragedy near Islamabad that occurred earlier this evening leading to the loss of so many precious lives. 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. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Pakistan in this time of grief."