SINGAPORE - Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has "verified the safety of all registered Singaporeans in Nice," it said in response to queries on Friday (July 15) following the Bastille Day truck attack in the French Riviera city of Nice.
In the attack, 80 people were killed when a "terrorist" gunman drove a heavy truck at high speed into a crowd watching Bastille Day fireworks on Thursday.
"The Singapore Embassy in Paris is in contact with the local authorities to ascertain whether there are any Singaporeans affected by the attack," said an MFA spokesman in a statement.
President Tony Tan Keng Yam and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong have written to President of the French Republic François Hollande and Prime Minister of the French Republic Manuel Valls respectively to convey their condolences.
Calling attacks on innocent lives "senseless and unjustifiable," President Tony Tan said: "We are profoundly saddened by the loss of lives and our deepest sympathies go to the families of the victims. We wish the injured a speedy recovery."
"Singapore stands with France during this difficult time," he wrote.
PM Lee said he was "shocked to learn of the terrorist attack in Nice during the... celebrations that has claimed so many innocent lives and left many more injured."
He added: "Singapore strongly condemns this senseless violence and stands in solidarity with France.
"On behalf of the Singapore Government, I would like to convey our condolences and sympathies to the families of the victims. Our thoughts are with France and her people during this time of grief."
The MFA spokesman said: "We are shocked and saddened yet again by another terror attack. We express our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wish those who are injured a speedy recovery. Our thoughts are with the people of France at this time."
In its statement, MFA also urged Singaporeans in France to exercise vigilance and follow the instructions of the local authorities, and when possible, let their family and friends know that they are safe.
Singaporeans who require consular assistance should contact the Singapore Embassy in Paris (+33 6 7503 2555) or 24-hour MFA Duty Office (+65 6379 8800, +65 6379 8855)
Athe French Embassy in Cluny Park Road, flags were flying at half-staff this morning.
An online condolence book will be launched on its website later Friday for the public to pen their messages, said a spokesman from the embassy. A physical condolence book will likely be opened at its premises for the diplomatic community on Monday (July 18).
Following the terrorist attacks in France last year, the spokesman from the French embassy said it has heightened its security on its grounds.
