‘Important that full and transparent investigation take place’: MFA

SINGAPORE — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement today (July 18) expressing condolences over the Malaysia Airlines MH17 tragedy and stressing the importance of an exhaustive investigation into the incident.

Some reports have said that Malaysian Airlines MH17 was shot down over eastern Ukraine by militants on Thursday (July 17), killing all 295 people aboard.

A Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman said:
“Singapore is shocked and saddened to learn of the tragic crash of Malaysia Airlines (MAS) flight MH17 on 17 July 2014. The Government and people of Singapore send our deepest condolences to the families of the victims in this time of profound grief. We also stand in solidarity with the Government and people of Malaysia during this difficult period.

“It is important that a full and transparent investigation take place to establish what caused the crash. The investigation team should be given full access to the affected areas and evidence. We stand ready to offer any possible assistance.

“At this point, there have been no reports of Singaporean victims. MFA remains in close contact with MAS and the relevant airport authorities to ascertain the nationality of the unverified passengers.”