SHANA -- Secretary General of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Mohammad Sanusi Barkindo sent a letter to Iranian Minister of Petroleum Bijan Zangeneh to convey to him the organization's sincere condolences and sympathy on the tragic loss of live of the crew members of the Iranian oil tanker Sanchi.

The message read as follows:

Excellency,

On behalf of the staff of the Secretariat and myself, I would like to convey our sincere condolences and sympathy on the tragic and sad loss of life of 32 crew members of the Iranian oil tanker Sanchi, which sank so tragically in the East China Sea.

This distressing accident and the sad loss of life has brought untold sorrow and suffering to so many families, friends and colleagues and o the wider community, and we stand in solidarity with them, and with you, al , at this sad time.

Please know that the people of Iran will remain in our thoughts and prayers at this sorrowful time.

Please accept, Excellency, assurances of my highest consideration and respect.

Mohammad Sanusi Barkindo

Secretary General