Putin offers condolences to Kim Chong-Il in connection with railway accident

Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent a telegram of condolences to North Korean leader Kim Chong-Il in connection with a major railway accident in the country, the Kremlin press service told RIA Novosti.

"Dear President Kim Chong-il, I learned the news of the major accident at the railway station in Ryongchon, which caused many casualties and destructions, with deep regret. We share the grief of the victims' families and our North Korean friends," the telegram says.

Vladimir Putin asked to offer his condolences to relatives and friends of the tragedy victims and sincere sympathy with everyone who suffered in the accident.

The Russian government, first of all, the Emergencies Ministry is ready to render urgent assistance to North Korea.