Greek Cypriot Administration Rejects Aid Offer from Northern Cyprus Amid Ongoing Forest Fires

Kokcha News Agency: The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has offered assistance to the Greek Cypriot Administration (GCA) to help control the devastating forest fires raging in Limassol and Paphos. However, the GCA has reportedly rejected the aid offer, according to TRNC Prime Minister Ünal Üstel.

During a visit to Ozanköy, Prime Minister Üstel criticized the GCA’s decision, stating, “We offered help, but the Greek Cypriots refused. They are willing to let the fires burn but not accept our assistance.” The TRNC had initially conveyed its offer of aid through the United Nations (UN) and later directly to the GCA through the TRNC’s chief negotiator.

The forest fires, which broke out in the rural areas of Limassol and Paphos, have already claimed two lives and left 26 people injured, with many still receiving treatment. Firefighting efforts are ongoing in Limassol, while the blaze in Paphos has been partially contained.

Reports in the Greek Cypriot media suggest that authorities are investigating the possibility of arson in the Limassol fire. Additionally, large parts of the rural areas in Limassol and Paphos remain without electricity due to the fires.

The TRNC’s offer of assistance highlights the ongoing tensions between the two sides of the divided island, even in times of crisis. Despite the rejection, the TRNC has reiterated its willingness to provide support to mitigate the damage caused by the fires.