(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) White House Press Secretary Jay Carney on Wednesday offered "thoughts and prayers" for the people of Turkey in the wake of the coal mine explosion in Soma in which some 200 were killed and hundreds more trapped. "On behalf of the American people, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and our best wishes for the safe exit of the remaining miners," Carney said during a briefing. "Turkey is a close and long-standing friend and ally of the United States. We are ready to assist the Turkish government if necessary, and we will continue to stand together in this time of tragedy."