April 6, 2024
No.126
A seven-member team of Turkish drone experts arrived in Taiwan on April 6 to participate in earthquake rescue efforts coordinated by the Central Emergency Operation Center. They will employ specialized drone technology and share practical experience in disaster rescue operations. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of the Republic of China (Taiwan) sincerely welcomes and appreciates their assistance.
Türkiye employed both public- and private-sector resources to organize this mission as an expression of gratitude to Taiwan’s government and people for their genuine friendship in providing various forms of assistance after Türkiye was hit by the most powerful earthquake in a century in February last year. The team is led by Kamil Demirkapu, a senior expert attached to an international disaster drone testing and training center project under the Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation. Following communication with and arrangements by MOFA and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Mission in Ankara, the team arrived with Türkiye-made drones and related equipment. In coordination with the National Fire Agency, they will travel to Hualien to assist in rescue work and share related experience.
After Hualien was struck by an earthquake on April 3, Türkiye promptly sent its consideration and expressed willingness to provide rescue assistance. MOFA appreciates the kind support extended by Türkiye and hopes that the goodwill between Taiwan and Türkiye will grow and spread among the wider international community. (E)