Chairman-in-Office and Secretary General announce OSCE support to earthquake victims during visit to Türkiye

ANKARA, 20 February 2023 – The OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Minister of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia Bujar Osmani, and Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid visited Ankara to express their condolences to all those affected by the terrible earthquake that struck Türkiye and Syria on 6th February. They announced OSCE support to address immediate needs, as well as to provide longer term assistance.

As part of the short-term measures, the OSCE’s Chief Medical Officer is ready to be deployed with an international team to support ongoing efforts to provide emergency medical assistance.

The OSCE is also prepared to provide longer-term assistance that supports increased cross-border co-operation among emergency services in the OSCE region.

The announcement was made during a visit by the Chairman-in-Office and the Secretary General to Ankara for a meeting with Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all OSCE participating States for the support they have given to Turkiye during this difficult time. These are times when humanity is tested. This tragedy reminds us of the importance of togetherness, unity, and solidarity. The bonds between nations are never stronger than in times of crisis. It is our collective responsibility to continuously provide aid and support to those affected by this tragedy,” said Osmani.

“The devastation caused by this earthquake is truly staggering. I am grateful to have the opportunity to provide whatever support the OSCE can offer – both to address the immediate needs of the women, men, and children affected and to support longer-term efforts to enhance regional co-operation in addressing natural disasters like this one,” said Schmid.