SKOPJE – EU Ambassador to North Macedonia, Mihalis Rokas, expressed the EU’s unwavering support following the tragic incident in Kočani, where 59 lives were lost and 155 individuals were injured. Offering heartfelt condolences, Rokas emphasized that the EU has been committed to assisting North Macedonia from the very outset of this crisis. “We have activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, and I am grateful to see that numerous member countries have promptly offered their help. We will continue our support,” he stated after signing the Book of Condolences at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade. He underscored the importance of solidarity during such challenging times, urging everyone to “support each other.”
Swedish Ambassador Ami Larson Jain echoed these sentiments, highlighting the significance of demonstrating solidarity with North Macedonia during this difficult period. After signing the Book of Condolences, she said, “Our hearts are heavy for the numerous young lives lost and the injured. North Macedonia has requested assistance through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, which was activated yesterday. We are actively working within the EU to identify ways to provide support. The Swedish authorities are already contributing to this assistance, and we are exploring how to offer the best possible help in these times. This reflects the friendship between North Macedonia, Sweden, and other European nations,” said Larson Jain.
In related news, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Timčo Mućunski, announced that 51 individuals injured in the Kočani fire have been sent abroad for treatment through a coordinated effort by the Crisis Headquarters over the past 24 hours. Additionally, twenty more patients will be transported to hospitals in Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Norway, and Hungary. (March 17)
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