Putin offers condolences to Rouhani over earthquake

Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered condolences to Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and Iraqi President Fuad Masum over heavy casualties and destruction caused by a strong earthquake in the west of the country.

"Please accept sincere sympathy and support for the relatives and friends of those who perished and wishes of early convalescence to all survivors of this calamity," Putin said in a message published on the Kremlin’s website.

Putin expressed to Rouhani "deep condolences over the heavy loss of human life and destruction in the west of Iran."

Russia's President also expressed condolences to the president of Iraq.

"Dear Mr. President. Please, accept the most sincere condolences over the tragic effects of the earthquake in Sulaymaniyah Province. We share the grief of those who lost their relatives and dear ones as a result of this disaster and we hope for the early recovery of all those who survived," the message published on the Kremlin’s website reads.