14 July 2025 Today, a team of Moldovan firefighters departed for Greece on a new international mission to support local authorities in combating wildfires. Twenty-two firefighters from the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations (IGSU), equipped with six fire engines, will operate for two weeks in the city of Patras, alongside colleagues from Romania, France, the Czech Republic and Austria. This marks Moldova’s fifth international intervention mission and the second carried out under the European Civil Protection Mechanism - a clear testament to our ability to respond swiftly and effectively to protect lives. The deployment is part of the European Pre-Positioning Programme for specialized teams and will last one month. Our firefighters, ready to act wherever risks are high and every second counts, will be replaced by another team after two weeks of mission. Before their departure, the firefighters received words of encouragement from Speaker of Parliament, Igor Grosu, Minister of Internal Affairs, Daniella Misail-Nichitin, the IGSU leadership and the deputy Head of Mission of the Hellenic Republic, Konstantinos Kattoulas. The officials urged the team to act with professionalism, unity, skill and courage, and to return safely to their loved ones. "Today is more than a moment of sending off a team on an international mission. It is a day when Moldova sends courage and expertise where they are most needed. Greece is facing a difficult time, with wildfires, fuelled by climate change, threatening lives, homes and entire forests. In this critical moment, Moldova stands with its European partners in support of Greece", said Minister Misail-Nichitin. Last year, Moldovan firefighters responded to eight major fires in Greece and saved three lives. Their dedication was recognized by both local authorities and affected communities. Save lives! bring hope! Come home safe! Moldova can and Moldova is proud of you!