site.btaUPDATED Bulgarian Red Cross Cables Condolences to Kocani Fire Victims' Families, Loved Ones

The Bulgarian Red Cross has expressed its condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims in the tragic incident that took place in Kocani, the Republic of North Macedonia, on Sunday.

“It is with deep sadness and sympathy that we have learned of the tragic accident in the town of Kocani, which claimed 59 lives and left more than 150 injured. This is a tremendous loss for the victims’ families, their loved ones, and the entire community in the Republic of North Macedonia,” the statement said.

“We share in their grief and empathize with the suffering of the victims,” the Bulgarian Red Cross said, adding that it stands ready to provide full support for the victims and their relatives, including psychological assistance, as well as to help during the recovery process.

“We express our deep respect for the rescue teams, medical personnel and volunteers who have been working with dedication and professionalism to care for the victims and help them overcome the consequences of this tragedy,” the statement read.

The Bulgarian Red Cross and the Red Cross of the Republic of North Macedonia have always adhered to the principles of humanity, solidarity and impartial assistance to those in need. “In difficult times like these, our shared efforts to support the victims and to uphold the core values of the Red Cross - serving humanity with care and compassion - are strengthened,” the Bulgarian Red Cross said.

“We believe that in these difficult times, humanity and solidarity will unite us even more in our efforts to help those who need it most,” the organization added.

On Monday, the Bulgarian Red Cross, Pirogov Emergency Hospital, and the National Centre for Transfusion Hematology launched a blood donation campaign to support those injured in the Kocani nightclub fire.

A tent has been set up by the Bulgarian Red Cross in the parking lot of Pirogov Hospital, where volunteers will collect blood donations for the injured victims. Relatives of the injured can also receive psychosocial support, as well as any other assistance they may need.