“Today our heart is in Italy, with the Italian people and authorities,” – says the statement of  Commissioner on Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides:

“Once again the country has sadly suffered another deadly earthquake, this time on the island of Ischia, with initial reports of casualties and damages to infrastructures including hospitals and churches.”

“We offer our condolences to families and friends who have lost loved ones.”

“The EU is fully ready to help. Our 24/7 Emergency Response Coordination Centre has been in immediate contact with the Italian Civil Protection authorities since the early hours.”

“We stand ready to provide any immediate assistance the national authorities could require.”

“The EU’s emergency Copernicus satellite mapping system is also available to help the national civil protection authorities.”

“Let me commend the brave first responders working tirelessly on the scene to save lives. They are an example for us all.”