French President Emmanuel Macron expects the contribution of Moscow and Ankara to the funds being organized to help Beirut, affected by the explosion. The politician said this when opening on Sunday, August 9, an international donor conference to raise funds for Lebanon.
“The appeal was also addressed to Turkey and Russia. Turkey was unable to join the videoconference, but will bring its help. I am sure that Russia will do the same, “- quotes the words of Macron” Interfax “.
BFMTV, which broadcasts the conference, notes that, according to Macron, the main goal today is to “quickly and efficiently” coordinate aid to Beirut. The French leader identified four areas of assistance: health care, nutrition, education and housing.
“Hundreds of thousands of people are on the streets today. We must help them, ”he said.
The explosion of 2.75 thousand tons of ammonium nitrate occurred in the port area of Beirut on 4 August. As a result, many buildings were destroyed, glass and doors were shattered. According to the latest data from the Lebanese Ministry of Health, 158 people were killed, 21 were missing and about 6 thousand were injured. The perpetrators of the tragedy will be determined by a military tribunal.
Russia has sent five planes to the affected Lebanese capital with help. Mobile hospitals have been deployed in the city, and Russian doctors are treating victims. On Sunday, EMERCOM employees completed search and rescue operations at the explosion site.
In addition, Turkish search and rescue teams are working in Beirut. Ankara sent 400 tons of food and medical aid. Vice-President of Turkey Fuat Oktay announced the readiness of the Turkish side to rebuild the damaged port in Beirut and offered Lebanon to temporarily use its port in Mersin.
The tragedy sparked protests in Beirut. On the eve, demonstrators stormed a number of Lebanese ministries, demanding the resignation of the government. According to the latest data, 728 people and more than 70 security officials were injured as a result, one was killed.