EU lawmakers express solidarity with Canadians affected by wildfires

Brussels (dpa) – Three leading European Union lawmakers on Friday expressed their “heartfelt solidarity” with those affected by sweeping wildfires in Canada.

More than 200 active fires are currently raging in Canada, over 100 of which are out of control.

Around 30,000 people have already been evacuated due to the blazes. A state of emergency has been declared in the provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

“We stand with the Canadian people during this difficult time − with the communities facing evacuation, the families who have lost their homes, and the brave first responders working tirelessly to contain the fires and protect lives,” said the lawmakers in a joint statement.

The statement was issued by German EU lawmaker David McAllister, who heads the foreign affairs committee of the European Parliament, as well as Javier Moreno Sánchez of Spain and Tobias Cremer of Germany, who are in charge of EU-Canada relations.

“Canada is a close friend and partner of the European Union. In moments of adversity, we are reminded of the strength of our transatlantic bonds and shared values,” they said.

“Our thoughts are with all those impacted, and we send our sincere hopes for safety, resilience, and a swift end to these devastating wildfires.” (6 June)