As reports of at least four foreign nationals being dead — including an Australian, a Japanese and two others — calls poured in from foreign leaders. Condemnatory statements came from countries spanning the world, including Pakistan, which even proposed a direct contact and hotline established between the Intelligence Chiefs of the two countries, so that they could share information and cooperate with each other in a more effective manner.

US Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice on Thursday called up External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee and condemned the attacks.

“The United States Government is shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life caused by these vicious acts of terrorism. I extend sincere condolences to those injured by these criminal acts and to the families of the victims. The US Government has offered extensive assistance to deal with this ongoing crisis and stands ready to assist as the situation unfolds,” US ambassador David Mulford said.

British High Commissioner Richard Stagg is in Mumbai along with British Deputy High Commissioner in Mumbai Vicki Treadell. They have been visiting hospitals throughout the night.

French President Nicholas Sarkozy wrote a condolence letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, saying: “After the tragic hours that have plunged Mumbai in mourning, I wished to convey my full solidarity on behalf of France and myself. I most strongly condemn the blind violence, which has been perpetrated in your country through this series of cowardly and abominable terrorist attacks.”

Japanese Foreign Minister Hirofumi Nakasone said that the Government of Japan expresses its strong indignation over the series of terrorist attacks that took place in Mumbai.

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