PHOTO // Moldovan firefighters, rescuers leave for Greece to help fight wildfires

A team of firefighters and rescuers from the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations (IGSU) today left for Greece, in order to take part in the pre-positioning mission, providing support to Greek authorities in extinguishing wildfires.

The mission is a response to the Greek authorities' request and will last two weeks. Attending the ceremony on the dispatching of the team of firefighters and rescuers were Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu, Interior Minister Daniela Misail-Nichitin, as well as Deputy Ambassador of Greece to Moldova Konstantinos Kattoulas.

At the beginning of the event, Speaker Igor Grosu expressed confidence that the firefighters and rescuers would successfully fulfill their mission, as they are true professionals.

“This is not just a mission; this is proof that Moldova is not only a country that benefits from the help of our Greek and European friends, but it is also a country that always contributes when needed. This is not your first time going to help our Greek friends, who have always had words of praise and appreciation for you. Thus, I proudly remember the images from the previous mission, when the Greek people took to the streets to welcome the convoy, to thank you for all you've done. I'm confident that you will do everything possible, in order to successfully complete this mission; you have the necessary equipment, and you are true professionals. Return home safely after completing this important mission,” remarked Igor Grosu.

At the same time, Daniela Misail-Nichitin said that today is a day when Moldova sends courage and skill where support is needed.

“Greece is going through a difficult period, with wildfires fueled by climate change threatening lives, homes and entire forests. In such a moment, Moldova is present alongside other partners who respond to Greece's request for help. This is the fifth international external mission we partake in with professionals and intervention equipment, and the second mission since our country became a member of the EU civil protection mechanism. You, the firefighters and rescuers heading for the mission, represent a living proof of solidarity. I have full confidence in your professionalism. You've shown time and again that, when others hesitate, you act. You know how to confront danger with skill and a big heart. Besides professionalism, you will offer empathy and care to those in danger. I wish you health, take care of yourselves and each other, act as a team, and return safely home. Moldova is proud of you,” said Daniela Misail-Nichitin.

Deputy Ambassador of Greece to Moldova Konstantinos Kattoulas thanked for the assistance provided during a difficult period for Greece.

“Thank you for showing unity, collaboration and solidarity. I am sure your professionalism will greatly assist us in these difficult times,” said the official.

This is the second consecutive summer that Moldovan firefighters and rescuers join European partners, in order to contribute to the prevention and extinguishing of wildfires within the European Union civil protection mechanism. Last year, Moldovan firefighters intervened in eight large-scale fires across Greece and saved three lives.





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