South Asia unites in Sri Lanka's hour of grief

South Asia countries were among the first to react and stand with Sri Lanka in its hour of grief on Sunday after it was hit by series of blasts. The attack killed over 200 people and 450 were injured.

Hours after the serial bombs that ripped through Sri Lanka, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on call and condemned the attacks. He also conveyed "deepest condolences" on behalf of the Indians.

Terming the attacks "cold-blooded and pre-planned barbaric acts" PM Modi pointed out that these attacks were another "grim reminder of the most serious challenge posed to the entire humanity by terrorism."

India has also offered all possible help and assistance to Sri Lanka for ensuring its security against the challenges posed by terrorism.

The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement extended condolences to the families of the victims and Government of Sri Lanka, said, "India has always opposed and rejected terrorism in all its forms and manifestations" and has urged "concerted action by the international community against terrorism, including cross-border terrorism. "

"There can be no justification whatsoever for any act of terror," the foreign ministry added. 

Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih extended "heartfelt sympathies to all affected by this cowardly act" and assured "support in the fight against terrorism."

Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid also condemned the "heinous terroristic attack."

Meanwhile, Maldives' minister of state Ahmed Khaleel will visit Sri Lanka on Monday as a special envoy of the president to inquire on the condition of Maldivians who may have been affected by the explosions. He will also convey solidarity to the Sri Lankan government at this time of national distress.

Expressing sadness, Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in a tweet said," I express my condolence with Rt. Hon'ble Ranil Wickramasinghe, PM of Sri Lanka and bereaved families of victims of brutality. I wish a speedy recovery to the injured."

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan also expressed condolences to Sri Lanka and said his country "stands in complete solidarity in their hour of grief."

Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi telephoned Sri Lankan President and Prime Minister to express condolences and conveyed sympathies for the families that lost their loved ones in the tragedy.

Afghan foreign minister's spokesperson Sibghatullah Ahmadi also condemned the attack in "strongest terms".

Bhutan and Bangladesh also condemned the attack and expressed their solidarity with Sri Lanka. 

Bangladesh's PM Sheikh Hasina wished quick recovery of those who were injured in the attacks.