EU Civil Protection Mechanism activated in response to the earthquake in Indonesia
EU Civil Protection Mechanism activated in response to the earthquake in Indonesia
The EU Civil Protection Mechanism has been activated to respond to the devastating effects of the earthquake and tsunami in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. The European Commission's Emergency Response Coordination Centre is now working 24/7 to mobilise offers of assistance to the affected areas. In an immediate response, initial offers have been made by Belgium and Denmark. More assistance is expected to be channelled in the coming days.
"European solidarity knows no borders. We are working round the clock to channel essential supplies through our Civil Protection Mechanism. I thank the states that have offered assistance so far and I call on our Member States to continue to respond swiftly." said Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides.
This comes on top of the €1.5 million package of initial EU humanitarian assistance that was mobilised in the immediate aftermath of the disaster already last weekend.
Additionally, Copernicus, the European Commission's emergency satellite mapping services, has produced satellite maps to assess the situation in the affected areas and help national authorities and responders on the ground. The European Commission co-finances the transport costs of assistance mobilised through the Civil Protection Mechanism, which can only be activated upon request of an affected country.
Photos and video stockshots of the Emergency Centre are available.
(For more information: Carlos Martin Ruiz De Gordejuela – Tel.: +32 229 65322 ; Daniel Puglisi – Tel.: +32 229 69140)