BUENOS AIRES, August 20, 2008 (AFP) - Latin American governments sent Spain condolences and offers of assistance for Wednesday's tragedy at Madrid airport, where a passenger jet crashed on take-off, killing 153 people.

Argentine Foreign Minister Jorge Taina phoned his Spanish counterpart Miguel Angel Moratinos 'to convey the profound sadness of the Argentine government and people' and extend Argentina's help in the tragedy, a ministry statement said.

Colombia extended to Spain's government and people 'the most sincere condolences and wishes for the prompt recovery of all those who have been injured' in the crash, a foreign ministry statement said.

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez sent a personal message to Spain.

'At this terrible time, all Venezuelans extend our feelings of solidarity and brotherhood to the families and friends of the victims of such a horrible accident,' he said in a statement.

Costa Rica 'expresses its solidarity in these difficult moments,' a foreign ministry statement said.

'The Spanish people have already shown extraordinary determination in dealing with adversity and once again will find the strength to overcome these difficult moments,' it added.