Skopje, 21 March 2025 (MIA) — The medical treatment provided to the injured in the Kochani fire is free, courtesy of the countries that have hospitalized the burn patients, Health Minister Arben Taravari told a press conference Friday.

Responding to a reporter's question whether money was being raised for medical bills, Taravari dismissed the reports as speculation.

"In general, 99 percent of the treatment is free of charge," Taravari said, adding that there was no need for raising money or for "speculation and lies."

"This is the truth. It was announced three or four days ago," he recalled.

Taravari added that the government had covered the travel and accommodation costs for two family members of each patient abroad.

According to the latest update from the health minister, 162 patients are currently hospitalized with burns and inhalation injuries. Ten of them, who have received medical care in the country, will be discharged during the day, he told the press.

The March 16 fire at the Pulse nightclub in Kochani killed 59 people died and injured over 160. mr/