News

NEIGHBORING ISLANDS RALLY FOR RELIEF AID EFFORT

20.02.2023

Following the series of major disasters in the southeastern part of our country, a relief effort has been launched in our country and around the world, and aid supplies collected on neighboring Greek islands are being delivered to the earthquake zone through Bodrum.

Aid supplies collected for earthquake victims on Greece's Kos and Leros islands were brought to Bodrum in the evening. The Greek delegation, who was welcomed by Emel Çakaloğlu, the Acting Mayor at the Cruise Port, delivered 39 pallets and 270 large bags of aid materials, which were received by the officials.

Later on, Stamatia Kantarzi, the Head Officer of Social Affairs of the Kos Municipality, Sami Payzanoğlu, a Businessman; Arif Yılmaz, the Chairman of the Bodrum City Council and others visited Ahmet Aras, the Mayor of Bodrum, who was making preparations to go to Malatya.

Sami Payzanoğlu, a generous businessman who stated that Leros Mayor Michael Kolias wanted to come to Bodrum himself but could not due to his busy schedule, said, "Michael Kolias, the Mayor of Leros asked me to convey his condolences and get well wishes to the Turkish nation. I have never seen such a mobilization, such solidarity in the city where I was born and raised. Everyone is working hard to help. Now we are launching a campaign for medicine and food aid."

Stamatia Kantarzi, the Head Officer of Social Affairs of the Kos Municipality, said that when the earthquake happened, the people of Kos immediately began relief efforts and said the following:

"In this tragic disaster, we realized that there should be no religious or ethnic discrimination in humanity. Kos shall always be there for you and continue to help. Our children come to school with bags of supplies. We are experiencing very different feelings. It is very important that our children act with these thoughts."

Beginning his remarks by thanking the Greek people for their noble generosity, Mr. Mayor Aras said, "A large geography, a large population was affected by these earthquakes. Since day one, we have been working with all our might to support the region and its people. Seeing our neighbors with us on such days is a source of pride for us. The continuation of this friendship and solidarity is very valuable for both countries. We would like to thank both neighboring municipalities once again. I will work to ensure that aid materials are delivered directly to their destination, so you can rest assured about that."

The delegation stated that aid supplies collected by the Rhodes Municipality will be delivered to Bodrum via Kos as soon as possible as well.