NZ missions in UAE open condolence books for terror victims

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NZ missions in UAE open condolence books for terror victims

Abu Dhabi - The terror attack on two Christchurch mosques claimed 50 lives.

By Team KT

Published: Wed 20 Mar 2019, 5:03 PM

Last updated: Wed 20 Mar 2019, 7:09 PM

The New Zealand Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the consulate in Dubai on Wednesday opened condolence books for residents to leave their messages of sympathy and support over the terrorist attacks on two Christchurch mosques, which claimed 50 lives.

"We received members of the public, New Zealanders, diplomats and other dignitaries who wished to express their sympathies with the victims of the terrorist attack in Christchurch. We were also very pleased to receive the New Zealand Special Olympic team," Matthew Hawkins, New Zealand's Ambassador to the UAE, said in a statement. "This is a difficult time not only for New Zealanders and other nationalities living overseas, but also for Emiratis who have been affected by this event. I am deeply appreciative of the messages of support from the UAE. Our condolence books will therefore be open again for signing on Thursday and Sunday."

The NZ Embassy in Abu Dhabi & Consulate General in Dubai received visitors to sign books of condolence today. Thank you to the many Emiratis, kiwis and others who joined us. Books will be open again Thursday & Sunday 10.00am to 2.00pm. Details here: https://t.co/F7wJtFiZuF pic.twitter.com/M3mEdQHk6r
- Matthew Hawkins (@NZinUAE) March 20, 2019

Hawkins tweeted that those unable to sign the condolence book in person can "email us by 10am, Monday, March 25". "Messages will be printed and added to the book."

The ambassador said there had been "an outpouring of public grief with tens of thousands of people coming together in solidarity and mourning in public events". "In Wellington, a national condolence book has been opened and hundreds of people have also signed condolence books at our network of New Zealand Embassies and Consulates around the world.

"Two minutes silence will be observed in New Zealand on Friday, March 22, and the Prime Minister has announced that a national commemoration service is being planned. The timing for this event will be released soon."

On March 15, after news of the terror attack shook the world, Abu Dhabi landmarks lit up with the New Zealand flag in a show of solidarity. The New Zealand envoy had thanked the UAE for the "special tribute". "I received many messages of condolences from senior members of the UAE government, officials, colleagues and friends. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers for the victims of Christchurch and for our country."

reporters@khaleejtimes.com