Four patients injured in the devastating fire that broke out during the night of 15-16 March in a nightclub in the Macedonian town of Kocani have arrived in Italy from Skopje. The incident resulted in numerous casualties and injuries, including several minors. In response to this emergency, the Republic of North Macedonia requested the activation of the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM), which facilitates the coordination of support interventions by the European Commission and EU Member States.
Italy promptly responded to the appeal from the Macedonian authorities, making its expertise and resources available. Thanks to the swift coordination between the Italian Embassy in Skopje, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and the Department of Civil Protection, a flight was organised to transfer the patients to Niguarda Hospital in Milan, Maggiore Hospital in Parma, and Cisanello Hospital in Pisa, where they will receive the necessary medical care.
The assistance provided reflects Italy’s commitment to supporting partner countries facing emergencies or crises. It also highlights the key role of Italy’s systemic approach in international cooperation and humanitarian crisis management, as well as the country’s full participation in operations conducted within the framework of the European Civil Protection Mechanism.
