In view of the increasing number of forest fires, particularly in the Mediterranean region, the situation in Europe remains troubling. Montenegro is currently facing violent fires that are threatening its capital, Podgorica, as well as other parts of the country. All resources available at national level – army and police helicopters, firefighters and volunteers – have been mobilised. Despite these efforts, persistent winds are fuelling the flames, rendering the situation in some areas uncontrollable. The authorities have carried out numerous evacuations.

In view of the scale of the disaster, Montenegro has requested the assistance of other countries. In response, Switzerland has offered assistance to the Montenegrin authorities, who have accepted. Since Friday morning, 22 firefighters from the Geneva and Lausanne fire and rescue services, the Vaud cantonal insurance establishment and the Sierre Valais region fire and rescue centre, accompanied by three fire engines and several support vehicles, have been working in the affected areas. Their mission is to fight vegetation fires, protect vulnerable locations and strengthen local resources in urban areas.

By Wednesday, Switzerland had already sent an advance team to Podgorica comprising two staff from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and three officers from Geneva fire and rescue (SIS). Their task was to prepare for the arrival of reinforcements from Switzerland and to coordinate operations with the local authorities.

This deployment is part of a cooperation agreement signed this spring between the SDC and SIS and is the first joint operation of this type. The mission is being carried out under the auspices of the SDC.

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