Georgia Saddened by Manchester Arena Blast

Georgian leaders and officials have expressed deep concern over the Monday night terror attack at Manchester Arena, that left at least 22 dead and nearly 60 injured.

Georgian Prime Minister, Giorgi Kvirikashvili extended his condolences to the families of the deceased.

"On behalf of the Government and the people of Georgia, I offer my sincere condolences to the Government of Great Britain and to the English people. We wholeheartedly share your sorrow in this challenging time.
I believe that the civilized world will launch even more vigorous efforts against terrorism and as a united force we will achieve peace across the world," the PM stated.

Outraged by the attack on innocent people in #Manchester! I extend my deepest condolences to the victims and their families.

— Giorgi Kvirikashvili (@KvirikashviliGi) May 23, 2017

The President of Georgia, Giorgi Margvelashvili also condemned the blast in his Twitter post.

I am deeply outraged over the deadly terrorist attack in #Manchester. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.

— President Of Georgia (@MargvelashviliG) May 23, 2017

Shocked by the explosion in #Manchester! My thoughts are with the victims and their families. Georgia stands with the UK!

— Mikheil Janelidze (@JanelidzeMkh) May 23, 2017

BBC reports that the blast happened at 22:35 BST on Monday at the end of a pop concert by the US singer Ariana Grande.

The explosion occurred shortly after the singer left the stage at the arena - the city's largest indoor venue with a concert capacity of around 21,000.

Greater Manchester Police said the lone male attacker, who died in the blast, was carrying an improvised explosive device which he detonated.

Home Secretary Amber Rudd said it was "a barbaric attack, deliberately targeting some of the most vulnerable".

The prime minister is to chair a meeting of the government's emergency Cobra committee.

The blast occurred close to the entrance to Victoria train and tram station has been closed and all trains cancelled.

By Thea Morrison