Finland to send rescue experts and material aid to Lebanon

Finland has decided to send expert and material assistance to Beirut through the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism due to an explosion, the Ministry of the Interior said in a press release. Lebanon has requested international assistance from the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, where Finland is a member.

According to the Ministry of the Interior, Finland will send a Finn Rescue - Technical Assistance and Support Team (TAST), which has been trained in international rescue operations, to Beirut. One of the team’s tasks is to support a team coordinating international aid.

Finland’s material aid will include medical and hygiene supplies. The Lebanese authorities have requested material assistance from EU countries, because the explosion caused extensive damage.

At least one 100 people died and thousands were injured in a huge explosion in Beirut on 4 August. The damage is estimated to extend across more than half of the city’s surface area.

The material assistance will be delivered through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism as part of the European Union’s joint assistance mission. The Ministry of the Interior has cooperated with the Finnish Red Cross in the procurement and transport of supplies.

Lack of adequate resources

International rescue operations refer to the provision of assistance to other countries and acceptance of assistance in Finland under international treaties and legislation in a natural or man-made disaster or accident when the affected country lacks adequate resources.

Finland is one of the most active countries in the EU Civil Protection Mechanism in providing expert assistance, the government says.

The Ministry of the Interior decides on the provision of assistance. Pelastusopisto – Emergency Services Academy Finland is responsible for the training, recruitment and logistics of experts and the practical implementation of international rescue operations.