The EU has mobilized emergency support for Albania following the 6.3 magnitude earthquake early this morning centered in the Durrës region. The Albanian government had requested the activation of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.
Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides stated:
The European Union stands by Albania at this difficult time. Search and rescue teams from Italy, Greece and Romania are already on their way. In addition, I would like to thank Hungary, Germany, Croatia, France, Estonia, the Czech Republic and Turkey for their offers of assistance through the European Civil Protection Mechanism. My thoughts are with the victims and all the people affected by the disaster.
Earlier today, High Representative Federica Mogherini released the following statement:
In the wake of the devastating earthquake that hit Albania early this morning, causing a loss of several lives and injuring many more, we express our deep condolences to the people and the authorities of the country.
The European Union stands in solidarity with Albania and is ready to offer assistance, including through the Union Civil Protection Mechanism. Our Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) has been in continuous contact with Albania’s civil protection authorities.
We remain in touch with Albania’s government to identify best ways we can help at this difficult moment.
