In response to the deadly earthquake of magnitude 6.8 that struck central Morocco on the night of 8 September, the EU is releasing an initial funding of €1 million in humanitarian aid to assist the most affected people. This funding aims to support the relief efforts carried out by humanitarian partners in the country.
Since the onset of the earthquake, the EU’s Emergency Response Coordination Centre EN•••has been following the situation closely and has been in contact with the Moroccan authorities offering the EU’s full civil protection assistance.
In this regard, the Commission has been in contact with EU Member States on a possible mobilisation of response teams, should Morocco deem them necessary.
The EU’s Copernicus satellite system was also activated on 9 September to provide emergency mapping services.
Janez Lenarčič, Commissioner for Crisis Management, said: “The tragic earthquake in Morocco has caused terrible suffering and loss of lives. As the EU stands in solidarity with the Moroccan people, we are releasing €1 million in funding to help alleviate the most urgent needs of the most affected population. The EU remains ready to assist Morocco in any necessary way during this difficult time.”