After the devastating earthquake on the border between Turkey and Syria, the Albanian government has launched a team of Armed Forces and Civil Defence to help the Turkish state. 

The Ministry of Defence announces that 88 medical personnel and search and rescue specialists, as well as 9 specialized vehicles, have been sent to this mission. 

"Turkey is a very important friendly country for us, which has constantly supported us. So in a way this is giving back. But even if a disaster happens to another country, our little Albania will show that it is always ready to make its capacities available, because in an emergency or solidarity we are already part of the Mechanism European Civil Protection, where we are not only to receive, but also to give. I thank you very much for the contribution you will make there. 

Gratitude also on behalf of the Albanian government, the Prime Minister and may you return safely", said Minister Peleshi at the ceremony of escorting the Albanian team. 

So far, at least 2,300 victims have been reported in Syria and Turkey as a result of the earthquake, while thousands more have been injured. As a result of the tremors, at least 3,000 buildings have been destroyed, while the search for other people trapped under the rubble continues. So far, it has not been confirmed that any Albanian has lost his life.