Sympathy is pouring in from around the world over the Pike River Coal mine tragedy.United States Secretary of State Hilary Clinton this morning offered her condolences to the families of the miners who died in the West Coast mine and all those affected by
Sympathy is pouring in from around the world over the Pike River Coal mine tragedy.
United States Secretary of State Hilary Clinton this morning offered her condolences to the families of the miners who died in the West Coast mine and all those affected by the tragedy.
"New Zealand has lost 29 brave and hard-working men who will be mourned around the world," she said in a statement.
"Earlier this month I visited New Zealand and I saw the famous Kiwi strength and spirit for myself. You have come through adversity before, and I know you will do so again. Today, our thoughts and prayers are with you."
European Commission president Jose Manuel Durao Barroso also expressed condolences.
"This accident has also affected the EU as two of the miners, Peter Rodger and Malcolm Campbell, were originally from the United Kingdom. Two Australians and a South African are also among the dead and I extend my sincere condolences to all of their families as well.
"I would also like to pay tribute to those rescuers who have worked so hard in the days since the first explosion in the mine to find a means of bringing the miners to the surface alive. Let me assure you of the solidarity of the European Commission at this most difficult time."
Earlier The Queen said she was "deeply saddened" by the deaths.
"My heart goes out to the families and friends of these 29 brave miners and to all who have been touched by this national disaster," she said.
"I send my thanks and deep appreciation to everyone who has worked so hard to attempt a rescue and also to those who will have a part to play in the task of healing the pain that is being felt throughout New Zealand and around the world.
"At this sad and difficult time my thoughts and prayers are with you all."
British Foreign Secretary William Hague also expressed "immense sadness" at the deaths.
"Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the 29 miners and all those whose lives have been marked by this tragedy."
"Links between the UK and New Zealand are extremely close. Many British citizens have made their home in New Zealand and the loss of Mr Rodger, Mr Campbell and their colleagues will have touched the hearts of many in the UK."
Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard said the news was tragic.
"Our hearts go out to them and on behalf of the Australian people I give the condolences of this nation."
She especially recognised the families of Australians William Joynson and Joshua Ufer.
"This is obviously a community in New Zealand that will now grieve bearing this dreadful loss, we send our best wishes and our best wishes, sympathy and support go to the two Australian families now living with this dreadful and tragic news."
Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma extended sympathy and solidarity.
"The initial hopes in recent days and now sense of despair and loss have been felt by fellow Commonwealth citizens and governments around the world as we have witnessed the Pike River Mine tragedy.
"In this dark hour for the people of New Zealand, we extend our sympathy and solidarity to you all."
In New Zealand a condolence book has been started at Parliament and Question Time won't be held this afternoon. The political parties will instead put their differences aside and speak about the tragedy.
