Brussels, 2 August 2021 (TDI): On 1 August, Turkey activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism to help mitigate the ferocious forest fires. In a swift response, the European Commission has already extended help by mobilizing fire-fighting airplanes of the RescEU: 1 Canadair plane from Croatia and 2 Canadairs from Spain. RescEU is a European reserve of resources that can respond to emergencies.
European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič said, “The EU stands in full solidarity with Turkey at this very difficult time. I thank all the countries which have offered help. Our thoughts are with the Turkish people who have lost their loved ones and with the brave first responders who are doing their best to battle the deadly fires. We stand ready to provide further assistance.”
In addition, the European Union’s Emergency Response Coordination Centre, which is active round the clock, is in regular contact with the Turkish authorities to keep a track of the situation and provide instant assistance.
