Finland to send expert, tech aid to Lebanon

The Ministry of the Interior on Thursday decided to send expert and material assistance to Beirut through the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism, following the explosions that rocked the Lebanese capital city on Tuesday, said a government press release.

Lebanon has requested international assistance from the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, of which Finland is a member.

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 twin explosions caused extensive damage.

At least 135 people were killed and 5000 others injured in the two huge explosions.

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.