Armenia exploring humanitarian and rescue aid to Turkey, Syria

PanARMENIAN.Net - The Armenian side has already announced its readiness to provide support to Syria and Turkey affected by the February 6 earthquake, Foreign Ministry spokesman Vahan Hunanyan told Armenpress Monday, February 7.

"Now the provision of humanitarian and rescue aid to the affected countries is being discussed," he said.

Armenia offered to provide urgent aid to Turkey and Syria after the two countries were hit by a powerful earthquake early on Monday.

“Saddened by the news of the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria that resulted in the loss of so many lives,” tweeted Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian. “Our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and we wish a speedy recovery to the injured.”

“Armenia is ready to provide assistance,” he wrote.

Armenia has no diplomatic relations with Turkey but maintains a cordial relationship with Syria’s government.

According to a report from The Guardian, dozens of powerful aftershocks continued to jolt southern Turkey and northern Syria on Tuesday, a day after an earthquake struck the region killing more than 5,000 people and destroying thousands of buildings, as difficult conditions, freezing temperatures and damaged roads hampered rescue efforts.