At least 25 people died as a fire broke out at a mine in Kazakhstan which is owned by steel major ArcelorMittal.

Several people are reported to be missing.

The blaze came on the same day Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev ordered investment in the company to be halted as he wants it to be nationalised, reported BBC.

In a statement,  ArcelorMittal said: "As at this time, 25 of our employees are confirmed dead with a further 21 still missing. 206 people were safely evacuated to the surface."

"Everything that can be done to support the families who have lost loved ones through this deeply painful time will be done," the company said.

Reacting to the President's order, the company said: "ArcelorMittal can also confirm, as communicated earlier today by the government of Kazakhstan, that the two parties have been in discussions concerning the future of ArcelorMittal Temirtau and recently signed a preliminary agreement for a transaction that will transfer ownership to the Republic of Kazakhstan."

Fifteen coal and ore mines are owned by ArcelorMittal Temirtau in Kazakhstan.