Greece Assists Cyprus Slovenia Amidst Natural Disasters
In a display of solidarity and swift response, Greece is extending a helping hand to Cyprus, grappling with raging wildfires, and Slovenia, reeling from catastrophic floods. The European Commission announced on Monday afternoon that Greece, through the European Civil Protection Mechanism, is deploying two Canadair firefighting aircraft and 20 tons of fire retardant fluid to aid Cyprus in its firefighting efforts.
Following a formal request from Cyprus, the EU quickly mobilized the firefighting aircraft, which will operate from Greece's reserves. These assets are expected to provide critical support in combating the ongoing infernos that have been wreaking havoc on Cyprus.
Moreover, Greece, not wasting any time, has also pledged to send an additional 20 tons of fire retardant fluid through the European Civil Protection Mechanism, further bolstering the firefighting resources in the region.
The European Commission also emphasized its readiness to offer assistance to Slovenia, which is grappling with devastating floods. In response to Slovenia's appeal for aid, France is stepping up by dispatching two excavators equipped with engineering units, while Germany is contributing two prefabricated bridges and two excavators, along with the necessary personnel.
The Copernicus satellite mapping tool of the European Union has been instrumental in mapping the affected areas, aiding in emergency response efforts.
In response to Slovenia's request for assistance in dealing with flood damage, France is sending two excavators with engineering units, and Germany will dispatch two prefabricated bridges, two excavators, and corresponding personnel.
In light of these emergencies, European Crisis Management Commissioner, Janez Lenarčič, expressed gratitude to Greece for its prompt and crucial aid in tackling the wildfires in Cyprus, hailing it as a testament to European solidarity. "Following the catastrophic floods in Slovenia and the ongoing wildfires in Cyprus, the EU is working around the clock to provide emergency assistance," said Janez Lenarčič.
Mr. Lenarčič thanked Greece for its prompt emergency assistance in dealing with the wildfires in Cyprus, calling it a demonstration of European solidarity.
"I thank Germany and France for their swift response, and I call on the entire European civil protection community to respond to the major disaster affecting the country. We are also ready to mobilize the full range of recovery and support tools of the EU," he added.