United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) World Secretariat sent a solidarity letter to Turkey, one of UCLG-MEWA’s countries, over the forest fires that took place in different provinces of Turkey. The letter penned by Emilia Saiz, UCLG Secretary General, to Mehmet Duman, UCLG-MEWA Secrertary General, reads: “It is with great sadness that we are following the situation with the ongoing wildfires that are ripping through southern Turkey, ravaging coastal resorts, agricultural lands and forests, and putting so many lives at risk. On behalf of the entire team at the World Secretariat and on my personal behalf, we would like to express our solidarity with the people and local governments of Turkey that are affected by the situation, in particular in the area of Marmaris.”
“We salute the relentless efforts of firefighters and of all local governments in the area that are, once more, on the front line of this terrible crisis, trying to maintain their citizens safe. I would also like to reiterate the firm will of our network to keep advocating for urgent climate actions and for stronger strategies of disaster risk reduction at global level,” adds Saiz.
Pointing out to the great number of lives lost in disasters induced by climate change, she states: “In these difficult moments, UCLG feels all the more like a family. It is this sense of support and solidarity that I would like to express to you, on behalf of the Organization and the World Secretariat. Should there be any action you consider might be of help for the members of UCLG-MEWA, please rest assured that you can count on us. I wish you and all your members much courage.”
You can find the letter of solidarity from Emilia Saiz, UCLG Secretary General, here.