Portugal Concludes Wildfire Support Missions in Spain and France

Portugal's operational support for Spain and France in combating widespread wildfires is drawing to a close. The missions, initiated earlier in July to assist both nations battling blazes that have consumed thousands of hectares, are set to conclude this Wednesday and Thursday, respectively.

In Spain, the Joint Operational Force (Focon), mobilized by the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (Anepc), was deployed to the Ávila province. This contingent of 128 personnel, sent on July 25 following a request from Spanish authorities under a bilateral civil protection agreement, will return to Portugal on Wednesday, July 29. The Portuguese firefighters integrated into the Spanish firefighting efforts, collaborating closely with local authorities to protect people, property, and natural heritage.

Meanwhile, the support mission in France, which commenced on July 24, was dispatched under the European Union's Civil Protection Mechanism after a request for assistance. This deployment includes two Fire Boss amphibious aircraft and a seven-person team comprising Anepc representatives, pilots, and mechanics. This team is scheduled to return to Portugal on Thursday, July 30.

The conclusion of these missions marks the end of Portugal's direct operational assistance to its neighbors amidst a challenging wildfire season across Europe. The deployments highlight the collaborative efforts undertaken through bilateral agreements and EU frameworks to manage cross-border emergencies.