Prishtina, 9 February, 2023
The complete speech of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, in the Assembly of the Republic of Kosovo:
Thank you, dear Deputy Speaker of the Assembly,
Dear Members of Parliament,
Government cabinet,
Dear citizens,
All of Kosovo has been shocked by the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria that took the lives of more than 12 thousand people, this number is increasing hour by hour these days. We share the pain and sorrow with the affected peoples, we express our condolences to the families of the victims, we wish a speedy recovery to the injured, and we pray for the lives of those who are alive under the rubble.
The Kosovo Security Force contingent in Turkey consists of an urban search and rescue platoon, two medical teams and a K9 team with three dogs. The total number of landed personnel is 36 members of the KSF and this contingent landed in the Republic of Turkey on February 6. Meanwhile, the Turkish management authorities have taken the task of operating in the Hatay province of south-eastern Turkey. KSF units in Hatay province are conducting search and rescue operations and providing first aid.
During yesterday, the specialized urban search and rescue units of the KSF rescued a two-year-old girl and her mother, and are continuing the operation.
These are very dangerous and challenging conditions, so I congratulate our soldiers for their courage, agility and success! We also congratulate all those who are saving lives in the areas affected by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria.
Last modified: February 9, 2023