site.btaBulgaria to Assist Firefighting Effort in Greece

Sofia, July 24 (BTA) - Talking with Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras by telephone, Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov offered condolences on the loss of human lives in the wildfires in Greece, the Bulgarian government press service reported on Tuesday. Borissov said: "We were worried and pained to learn of the disaster which had afflicted the friendly Greek people, claiming human lives and causing serious damage to property."

Following Greece's request for assistance, a Bulgarian ground unit for suppression of forest fires geared up for a mission to the neighbouring country, the Interior Ministry reported. The assistance is being provided through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. Bulgaria is ready to send 50 firefighters and two fire engines immediately. The mission has been prepared by order of Prime Minister Boyko Borissov, who offered assistance during his conversation with Tsipras.

Bulgarian Foreign Minister Ekaterina Zaharieva cabled condolences to Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Kotzias.

The Foreign Ministry quoted the Bulgarian Embassy in Athens as saying that no Bulgarian nationals have been reported injured in the fires. No Bulgarians have sought assistance from the emergency centre at the Embassy.

As the fire situation remains difficult, the Foreign Ministry recommends to the Bulgarian nationals who are in Greece to follow strictly the instructions of the local fire safety and coast guard services. Bulgarians who need assistance can call the emergency centre at the Bulgarian Embassy in Athens at +30 6937 096 220.