Skopje, 14 March 2026 (MIA) - A year on from the Kochani tragedy, the health system continues to sum up the lessons, experiences and systemic challenges, Health Minister Azir Aliu told an international conference on the institutional and clinical aspects and solutions after the Kochani fire, held in Skopje on Saturday.

Minister Aliu referred to the response of health services in the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, the treatment and rehabilitation of the injured, while thanking more than 400 health workers from the public and private sector.

"Your professionalism, solidarity and humanity will remain long in our memory. In moments when every minute counted, you were the true partners in the fight for every human life," noted Aliu.

He also thanked medical teams in health centers abroad for the treatment of Kochani patients, saying "international solidarity showed that humanity knows no borders when lives are at stake".

Aliu also highlighted the coordination among institutions that ensured efficient and swift response, leading to 115 patients sent for treatment in clinics across Europe.

The Health Minister referred to long-term consequences of the tragedy, both physical and psychological, for the injured, their families and the community.

"This event also showed the need for further strengthening of the capacities for treatment of severe burns, mass casualties and long-term rehabilitation," said Aliu and concluded that the country owes it to the victims to continually improve its healthcare system.

Photo: MIA