Vietnamese police set off for search, rescue mission in Turkey
Hanoi (VNA) – The Ministry of Public Security on
February 9 held a send-off ceremony for personnel deployed for aiding search
and rescue activities in Turkey, which was hit by a 7.8-magnitude earthquake on
February 6.
The quake, the most devastating disaster sweeping Turkey since
1939, has so far caused 16,000 deaths and destroyed dozens of thousands
of houses. The local authorities have declared a state of emergency serving
urgent search and rescue work.
Addressing the ceremony, Minister To Lam said the delegation is sent to Turkey for finding victims, providing humanitarian assistance,
and helping the people stabilise their lives after the disaster.
He affirmed that the ministry’s participation in the search
and rescue efforts reflects the political commitments of Vietnam as a responsible member of the international community, staying ready to address difficulties, challenges, and maintain a peaceful and
stable environment serving cooperation and development regionally and globally.
Turkish Ambassador to Vietnam Haldun Tekneci said on
February 6 when the earthquake occurred that the embassy received the ministry’s
offer for assistance. He expressed a deep gratitude toward the Government, the
ministry, other competent agencies of Vietnam and each member of the rescue
team.
On behalf of the 24-member team, Colonel Nguyen Minh Khuong stressed
the importance of their upcoming work and pledged efforts to fulfill the mission.
In an interview with the Vietnam News Agency on the
ceremony, Lieut. Gen. To An Xo, spokesman of the ministry, said this is the
first time that the security body has sent a delegation on international
mission to a disaster area far away from Vietnam's territory. The group of
search/rescue and medical personnel set off immediately after receiving the
approval from the Prime Minister.
Considering them Vietnam's messengers of peace, Xo hoped
they will leave nice impressions in the hearts of the Turkish people and
international friends; and learn valuable experiences from the mission./.