PM to leaders: create a regional firefighting force

Netanyahu speaks to leaders of Greece, Russia, Egypt, Jordan and PA; says cooperation will better prepare region to deal with disasters.

By JPOST.COM STAFF
Netanyahu Greeks 311 (photo credit: Associated Press)
Netanyahu Greeks 311
(photo credit: Associated Press)
Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu spoke Tuesday with his Greek counterpart, as well as the presidents of Russia and Egypt, the Jordanian king, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to promotes the establishment of a regional force to assist in putting out fires in the area.
Netanyahu said the international assistance given to Israel last week in the wake of the Carmel fires should be a model for future cooperation efforts that may be necessary in the region.
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"By consolidating the resources and knowledge of the [surrounding] countries we can prepare for and respond to natural disasters in a much  better way. The cooperation we have witnessed over the past week in the Carmel should give hope to all those who seek and want peace. I am sure that Turkey and other countries will join."
The Greek president proposed holding a first meeting with the countries in Athens.
President Shimon Peres on Monday expressed his own and the nation’s appreciation to Russian Deputy Civil Defense, Emergency and Disaster Relief Minister Pavel Plat and his large delegation that came to battle the Mount Carmel fires.
The group was given a red carpet welcome.
“We thank you from the depths of our hearts,” he said, commending the bravery of the firefighters and rescue operators. “This is an act of courage and friendship that we will never forget.”