The Mongolian rescue team, led by the deputy head of NEMA, Brigadier General B.Uuganbayar, returned home on February 17, after serving in Turkey on February 8 to 16. Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia S.Amarsaikhan in his speech while picking up the servicemen at Khushig Valley Airport said, “Participating in international search and rescue operations on behalf of the country is a big responsibility. The people of Mongolia are proud of all of you who have proven to be the best servicemen that have reached the international level with their duties and professional skills, working side by side with more than 11,000 rescuers from 70 countries. The government and the people were confident that our people of the National Emergency Management Agency and the experienced medical team of the Armed Forces would fulfill this role successfully. On behalf of the Government of Mongolia and personally, I would like to express my sincere appreciation once again to all of you who have carried out this trust and successfully fulfilled your duties with honor.”
The rescue team worked in three groups: Search Team, Rescue Team, and Medical Team, and two search dogs named Balu and Marta who played important roles in the rescue team. The rescue team rescued 8 people (including 2 children) from under the rubble of the building and took them to the health care facility, and the bodies of 19 people (including 6 children) were handed over to the relevant authorities. Furthermore, five tons of meat, one ton of candles, 1000 blankets, and 20 complete Mongolian gers were sent to Turkey by the decision of the government and the gers were built and handed over to humanitarian aid. On the other hand, the medical group, based on the local hospital, fully expanded the secondary field hospital and provided medical care to 649 people (including 72 children).
On this occasion, Zafer Ateş, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Turkey to Mongolia said, “Two weeks ago, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake occurred in Turkey, covering 10 provinces. The Turkish people suffered heavy losses and declared a fourth-degree emergency and requested help from international organizations. The Mongolian team was the first to visit and respond positively. A friend in need is a friend indeed. Mongolia was able to stand together with us in our most difficult times. Numerous thanks to the Mongolian search and rescue team. Mongolia and Turkey have good brotherly relations. You have shown this beautiful relationship to the world. This act of yours will remain forever in the hearts of the citizens of Turkey. The Mongolian rescue team was able to save many people’s lives and provide medical assistance. We will never forget your heroism. You are a hero not only for the citizens of Mongolia but also for Turkey. Thank you very much.”
