In reaction to the terrible earthquakes that hit Turkey on February 6, over 1,400 emergency response workers from over twenty NATO allies and partners are deploying to the nation.
NATO’s allies and partners are giving a wide range of help, such as search and rescue teams with rescue dogs, fire departments and teams of structural engineers, medical staff and supplies, and experts on earthquakes.
NATO Spokesperson Oana Lungescu stated, “During this terrible time, we stand in solidarity with our ally Turkey and with all those affected, and NATO Allies stand ready to provide further assistance to those in need.”
NATO’s primary mechanism for responding to civil emergencies in the Euro-Atlantic region is the Euro-Atlantic Disaster Response Coordination Centre (EADRCC), which is coordinating the delivery of aid. All NATO allies and partner countries are encouraged to participate in the Centre’s activities, which take place around the clock all year long. Its primary purpose is to act as a central hub for coordinating aid responses in the aftermath of disasters, both natural and man-made.
The flags of all 30 NATO Allies and the NATO flag will fly at half-staff at NATO Headquarters until tomorrow evening, in remembrance of the victims and in solidarity with Turkey.
