Argentina sends humanitarian aid mission to earthquake-hit Colombia

Argentina is mobilizing a humanitarian aid mission to Colombia, a recent ally, in response to a severe earthquake that struck the country earlier in the week. The first contingent of aid is scheduled to depart imminently, demonstrating Argentina's commitment to assisting Colombia during its critical hour.

The Ministry of Defense confirmed that the military contingent will depart from the El Palomar military airport. While the exact number of personnel from the Army and Air Force involved remains unspecified, the operation will be substantial. An Air Force Hercules C-130 aircraft will transport essential equipment, including a field kitchen and a water purification plant. A separate Embraer RJ-17 aircraft will carry the personnel assigned to the mission.

According to official sources, the deployment will comprise personnel and resources from both the Argentine Army and Air Force. Their capabilities will focus on water purification and distribution, logistical and communication support, and medical assistance. The mission will also include 4,000 field rations and command and control support for operational coordination. Specialized personnel will be included for potential rescue tasks.

The operation will be coordinated by the Joint Staff of the Armed Forces under the supervision of the Ministry of Defense. This effort is being coordinated with the Colombian government, led by President Abelardo de la Espriella, who recently took office. The earthquake's epicenter was located near San José del Palmar in the Chocó department.

The initiative for humanitarian aid originated from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which offered assistance through diplomatic channels shortly after the disaster. Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno expressed solidarity with the Colombian people and government, extending condolences to the victims' families and offering Argentina's readiness to provide necessary assistance. The Foreign Minister had been part of the Argentine delegation at de la Espriella's inauguration.

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We express our solidarity with the people and the Government of Colombia in the face of the earthquake that occurred today, and we extend our condolences to the families of the victims and our solidarity to all those affected. We are in contact with the Colombian authorities, to whom we have conveyed Argentina's willingness to provide the necessary assistance.