Taiwan train crash | India deeply saddened by loss of lives in accident: MEA

Taiwan's Foreign Minister Dr. Joseph Wu thanked India "for the expression of sentiment and support"

India on April 3 conveyed condolences to Taiwan after the worst rail accident in the history of the island nation left at least 50 dead. The message triggered a series of exchanges among the officials on both sides, a rare sight in public diplomacy between the two countries that do not maintain full-fledged diplomatic ties because of objection from Beijing. "We are deeply saddened by the loss of so many lives in the railway accident in Taiwan. Our deepest condolences to the families. And our prayers for the early recovery of the injured," said Arindam Bagchi, Official Spokesperson, of the Ministry of External Affairs. The message drew a prompt response from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Taiwan, which in a social media message thanked the Ministry of External Affairs and said, "The government is working to ensure rescue and recovery efforts continue apace while making certain those affected receive all requisite support."