Government measures in response to earthquake in Türkiye

The Swedish Presidency today took the initiative in convening the Council’s Integrated Political Crisis Response mechanism (IPCR) regarding the situation in Türkiye and Syria. The aim of the IPCR meeting was to rapidly coordinate overall EU support to the affected countries at political level. It is essential that support meets the established needs on the ground following an initial evaluation of the situation.

In the first instance, the Government has immediately allocated SEK 7 million to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to support the initial response in Türkiye and Syria. The Government will decide on additional funds in close coordination with Türkiye, the EU, the UN and the IFRC once the needs become clearer.

“Sweden will now immediately send much-needed support that will make a difference directly on the ground. The Government stands ready to decide on additional funds in the near future when the needs are clearer,” says Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Johan Forssell.

The Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency has received a request for assistance from Türkiye and the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. The Agency is currently preparing possible support measures, including tents, temporary emergency shelters and expert assistance in the areas of water, sanitation, energy, logistics and construction.

“We will be able to contribute in areas where Sweden has particular expertise. Our support must be enduring,” says Minister for Civil Defence Carl-Oskar Bohlin.

Sweden is monitoring developments and is maintaining close contacts with Türkiye at different levels, including political level. Earlier this evening, the State Secretary for Foreign Affairs received the Turkish Ambassador and expressed the Government’s condolences to Türkiye.