Brussels, 2 August 2024 (MIA) – After North Macedonia sent a request for assistance, Germany and Sweden mobilized two planes each from rescEU, the EU’s fleet for battling fires, and this assistance was complemented by Czechia, with one rescEU helicopter, and Slovenia and Serbia with one helicopter each, the European Commission said Friday.

“In the constant fight against wildfires, the EU Civil Protection Mechanism responded immediately. I am grateful to the Member States that sent assistance – this is EU solidarity in practice,” said Commissioner for Crisis Management, Janez Lenarčič.

In addition, a liaison officer from the EU’s Emergency Response Coordination Centre was also deployed to North Macedonia to help coordinate the response in the country. 

In addition to North Macedonia, the EU Civil Protection Mechanism was also activated for Bulgaria and Albania, which are also hit by wildfires.

In Bulgaria, Greece and France deployed two planes each. Additionally, two planes from the rescEU fleet in Sweden complemented the response. To support Albania help fight wildfires, two planes from the rescEU fleet stationed in Italy were deployed.

“The EU's Emergency Response Coordination Centre continues to closely monitor the situation, ensuring that further assistance can be swiftly deployed if required,” said the press release.

MIA file photo