Morocco has dispatched two Canadair planes to Portugal to assist in combating wildfires affecting several regions. This action comes in response to an urgent request from Portuguese authorities and is part of the implementation of the bilateral cooperation agreement on civil protection between the two countries.
The Portuguese Ministry of Internal Affairs stated in a press release on Monday that the Moroccan planes arrived at Monte Real Air Base and have begun operations as part of the Rural Firefighters’ Unit (DECIR), with their missions expected to continue until the end of this week.
The ministry explained that Portugal initially sought assistance from Spain; however, the critical field conditions there prevented a response, prompting them to activate cooperation channels with Morocco.
The Portuguese government expressed its deep appreciation to the Kingdom of Morocco for its swift response, noting that technical issues affecting national aircraft require urgent repairs, and they are expected to return to service within days.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs confirmed that authorities are mobilizing all resources to ensure the protection of populations and lands from the risks posed by the fires.
