Turkey and Syria, relief comes from all over the world: a first list
Some have arrived, others are traveling or are preparing to leave. These are the rescue teams, firefighters, doctors, engineers and specialized equipment that dozens of countries from all over the world have made available to Turkey and Syria to deal with the dramatic consequences of the earthquake. The latest announcement comes from South Korean President Yoon, who has ordered the departure of rescue teams and emergency medical equipment. Below is a first list of aids:
– The European Union has mobilized search and rescue teams to aid Turkey, while the Copernicus satellite system has been activated to provide emergency mapping services. At least 13 member states have offered assistance, while the EU says it is ready to offer help to Syria through its humanitarian assistance programmes.
– The United States is coordinating the immediate assistance of the Turkish ally in NATO, sent search and rescue teams with rescue dogs, firefighters, engineers, while US-backed humanitarian organizations are responding to the emergency in Syria.
– Rescue teams are arriving in Syria from Russia. In the areas where Moscow has a military presence, 10 units are already active for about 300 people working among the rubble in search of survivors. The Russians have also set up distribution points and humanitarian assistance. Russia has also offered its help to Turkey, which has accepted.
– Putting aside rivalries and tensions, the Israeli army is sending search and rescue teams to Turkey, about 150 people including engineers, medical and specialized personnel of various kinds. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he accepted Syria’s request for help, received through official diplomatic channels (the two countries do not have diplomatic relations).
– Turkey’s longtime regional rival Greece is sending a team of 21 people, two rescue dogs and a special search and rescue vehicle.
– Germany, through the Foreign Ministry, is coordinating aid with European partners and preparing to send generators, tents, blankets and water treatment equipment. Berlin has also offered Ankara assistance from its civil defense teams. The international organization Search and Rescue Germany is setting up a mission consisting of doctors and rescue teams.
– 76 search and rescue specialists are arriving in Turkey from the United Kingdom, together with emergency medical personnel. The UK is in contact with the United Nations for assistance to Syria.
Among the countries that are participating in the major operation in support of Turkey and Syria are also Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, Japan, Mexico, Austria, Spain, France, Poland, Romania, Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, Moldova. And Italy: the Civil Protection has sent teams of firefighters, while the military aviation provides for the transport of medical personnel and equipment to the areas affected by the intervention.
