Athens , 29 August 2007

In the past few days, Greece is facing – for the first time on such a scale – a serious challenge brought about by multiple devastating fires in many areas of the country.

The loss of human lives, the environmental disaster and the major damage to houses and infrastructure have caused great suffering. At the same time, this natural disaster has heightened our determination to immediately and effectively heal the wounds.

Αn initial evaluation and assessment, as to the causes of the devastating fires:

-          the unusually long periods of extremely high temperatures causing conditions of prolonged heat waves

-          the prolonged drought of the past months

-          the simultaneous strong winds blowing in the regions where the fires started

-          arson, unintentional or deliberate, with various motives such as financial or other. There have been arrests of suspects and a judicial investigation is already under way.

Our fire-fighting efforts were conducted under unprecedented and extremely difficult conditions caused by the severe intensity, the extent and the complexity of this natural phenomenon.

The government has declared the country in a state of emergency. The overall mobilisation of the state and the valuable international assistance generously offered to Greece by many EU member-states and third countries, in conjunction with improved weather conditions, have allowed us to bring the situation under control, to a certain extent.

It is without a doubt that there is still a high level of preparedness and mobilisation in order to effectively prevent, as humanly possible, any resurgent or even new fires.

The challenge of the next day is serious and multifaceted. It has to do with addressing the environmental disaster, providing assistance to those affected by the fires and reconstructing the disaster areas.

There is a lot of work to be done. Greece, the Greek people, the Greek society, and the Greek state – with a sense of conviction and responsibility – are determined to put this tragedy behind us.

The generous contribution of Greeks abroad and that of other countries and people is invaluable. We thank them from the bottom of our hearts.

As announced by the government, the state is already implementing a plan for immediate and mid-term measures to provide relief to the people and ensure the reconstruction of the areas affected by the fires. We will promptly address the challenges and life will come back to normal.

Greece is a safe country.

In these areas, life is safely coming back to normal. The tourist industry infrastructure remains intact. Thus, tourist complexes are once again able to offer our visitors and friends from abroad the unique and internationally renowned Greek hospitality. 

The Museum of Ancient Olympia has reopened its doors to its visitors.

In 2008, the ancient site of Olympia will once again host the Ceremony for the Lighting of the Olympic Flame which will travel to Beijing for the 2008 Olympic Games.

Hope is here.


Open letter of FM Ms. Dora Bakoyannis... 

Statement of FM Ms. Dora Bakoyannis...

International assistance to confront the catastrophic fires