Tokayev expressed condolences to president of North Macedonia

Tengrinews.kz - The Head of State has sent a condolence telegram to the President of North Macedonia, according to the Akordа press service.

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed deep sorrow over the tragic fire that claimed numerous lives in the city of Kocani.

"On behalf of the people of Kazakhstan and personally, the Head of State expressed condolences to President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, as well as to the families of the victims, and wished a speedy recovery to those injured," the statement said.

The government of North Macedonia has declared a seven-day mourning period following the nightclub fire in the eastern city of Kocani, which killed at least 59 people.

Hundreds of people had gathered at the Pulse nightclub on Saturday evening to watch a performance by the local band DNK. By early morning, a fire broke out in the club. Reports indicate that several band members, including lead vocalist Andrej Gjorgieski, were among the victims.

Initial reports suggest that the fire was triggered by pyrotechnics used for stage effects. The sparks ignited the ceiling, which was made of flammable material, causing the flames to rapidly engulf the venue and produce thick smoke.