COPENHAGEN, 15 May 2014 – OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President Ranko Krivokapic today issued the following statement on the mine disaster in Turkey:

"I am greatly saddened by the mining tragedy in Soma, Turkey, which has claimed the lives of at least 282 people in what is being called Turkey's worst mine disaster ever. My deepest condolences go out to the families of the victims, the communities affected and to the people of Turkey.

"Mine safety is an issue that is a concern to the whole of the OSCE area, and it is important that the authorities in Turkey investigate this incident and take any necessary measures to improve the working conditions for miners."