Earthquake in Morocco: Algeria Extends a Helping Hand with Three Aircraft and Humanitarian Aid
BY: Hana Saada
Algiers, Algeria—September 12, 2023- In a remarkable display of solidarity between neighboring nations, Algeria has taken swift action to aid its neighbor, Morocco, following a devastating earthquake that struck the country last Friday. The Algerian government has allocated three aircraft from the Air Force of the People’s National Army (ANP) to transport Civil Protection intervention and rescue teams, along with crucial humanitarian aid, to the Kingdom of Morocco.
The heartwarming gesture of support comes as the Moroccan people grapple with the aftermath of the earthquake, and it reinforces the strong bond shared between these two brotherly nations.
Algerian Aid Mission Takes Flight
A dedicated team of 93 specialized agents from Algeria’s Civil Protection intervention and rescue unit gathered at the Boufarik military base on Monday, ready to embark on a mission of hope and assistance. Their destination: Morocco, where they await the green light from the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs to initiate their vital operation.
Upon hearing the announcement of Moroccan Minister of Justice’s acceptance of Algerian aid, the Algerian authorities acted swiftly to allocate three planes for the mission. Two of these aircraft are loaded with essential supplies, including medicines, beds, tents, and foodstuffs, while the third plane is reserved for transporting the intervention team, complete with their equipment and highly trained search and rescue dogs.
Expertise and Compassion Unite
Colonel Farouk Achour, the deputy director of statistics and information within the General Directorate of Civil Protection (DGPC), highlighted the composition of the intervention team bound for Morocco. He explained that the team includes members with international rescue badges specializing in managing major disasters, canine units trained for rubble rescue operations, a medical team, and logistics experts with the experience necessary to provide immediate aid.
Algerian Red Crescent’s Generous Contribution
Ibtissam Hamlaoui, the president of the Algerian Red Crescent (CRA), announced the organization’s substantial donation, stating that “100 tons of aid, including tents, beds, blankets, food packages, as well as medicines intended for urgent operations,” are being prepared for transport. She affirmed the CRA’s readiness to assist the brotherly Moroccan people, should the need arise.
Algeria’s Commitment to Solidarity
Algeria’s commitment to supporting Morocco in its time of need was reinforced by a press release from the Presidency of the Republic on Saturday. The statement reiterated the nation’s willingness to provide humanitarian aid and mobilize all available material and human resources in solidarity with Morocco, should an official request be made.
In a further gesture of goodwill, Algeria has also opened its airspace to flights for the transport of humanitarian aid and the injured, further exemplifying the depth of the relationship between these two neighboring nations.
