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Five Belgians on MH17

The Dutch authorities say that at least 173 people on board the aircraft were Dutch.

The Dutch wife of one of the Belgian victims is among their number.

The victims also include 43 Malaysians (including 15 crew and a Belgian resident), 27 Australians, and 12 Indonesians. A number of Britons, Germans, Filipino nationals and one Canadian are believed to have been on board too.

The Belgian Premier, Elio Di Rupo, has voiced his shock on hearing the news.

Speaking on behalf of the Belgian government Mr Di Rupo also expressed his condolences to the family and friends of the victims: "In particular my thoughts are with the five Belgian victims, their friends and family."

The Belgian leader added that his thoughts were with the Dutch people and the Dutch authorities, who had been so badly hit too.

Mr Di Rupo stressed that full clarity should be established with regard to the precise circumstances of the tragedy: "Those responsible must be identified and brought to justice."

The Belgian Foreign Ministry has opened a helpline for people who fear friends or relatives may have been aboard. People who are concerned can ring 02 501 40 00.

 

Flandersnews.be / Expatica