Turkey-Syria earthquake, Albania sends a solidarity mission to Turkey to help Search and Rescue Operations

Published: Monday, 06 February 2023 15:09

 

The Albanian Government has immediately responded to the call for help, after the devastating earthquake on the Turkey-Syria border, which caused numerous victims, injuries and significant damage.
An aid mission from the Armed Forces of Albania and the National Civil Defense Agency, consisting of 53 medical personnel, search and rescue specialists and 7 vehicles, left for Turkey, where they will participate in Search-and-Rescue Operations and alleviate the consequences of this tragedy.

The members of the rescue team were greeted at a special ceremony by the Defence Minister Niko Peleshi. As he expressed his gratitude on behalf of the Prime Minister Edi Rama as well as the Albanian government for all the personnel that will be engaged in this operation, Mr. Peleshi said that this is a contribution that goes back to Turkey, which has helped Albania continuously even during November 26 earthquake, 2019.

"Turkey is a very important and friendly country that has constantly supported us. Thus, we are providing our help the same way. But, even if a disaster happens to another country, Albania, though a small country, will always be ready to make its capacities available. In case of an emergency or solidarity, we are part of the European Civil Protection Mechanism, that is not only to receive, but also to give. I am very much thankful to you for the contribution you will give there. I want to express my gratitude on behalf of the Albanian Government and the Prime Minister. May you return safe!", - Minister Peleshi said at the ceremony held for the Albanian team.

The Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, Brigadier General Arben Kingji, the Director of the Civil Defense Agency Haki Çako and Commanders of the AF were also part of the ceremony.