In a video released by the Interior Ministry, its head, Fernando Grande Marlaska, said that the aid received by Spain from Morocco arrived when it was most needed and was of a crucial nature. The minister was accompanied by representatives of local authorities, elected officials, members of the armed forces, the national police and civil protection.
The minister underlined the exceptional commitment of the Moroccan teams sent by the King of Morocco, Mohammed VI. He also emphasized “the extraordinary coordination between Moroccan and Spanish commanders”. The video shows Mr Marlaska thanking the support received and saying that Spaniards will remember with gratitude the efforts made.
“Today, we bid farewell with emotion to our Moroccan friends who accompanied us in Valencia during these difficult weeks. Their work, their commitment and their generosity have left a deep impact in the hearts of Spaniards,” declared the minister.
Mr. Marlaska highlighted the 103 Moroccan soldiers who repaired more than 350 kilometers of damaged networks, unblocked more than 5,000 sewers, swept more than 30 kilometers of streets and collaborated in the repair, rehabilitation, cleaning and disinfection of more than 200 garages. Moroccan envoys provided 37 pumping trucks, which were very useful in the most remote affected villages.
“Since the arrival of Moroccan troops in mid-November, the 103 soldiers have accomplished exemplary work. You have worked tirelessly to clear more than 350 kilometers of sewer network, to clean more than 200 garages, ridding them of more than 200 tons of sludge,” added M. Marlaska.
Also speaking during this presentation, the Director General of Civil Protection, Virginia Barcones, expressed her deep gratitude to King Mohammed VI for his support, which she described as “decisive and effective”. “These gestures of solidarity between Morocco and Spain are the fruit of the relations that exist between the two countries”she concluded.
After the video was broadcast, a ceremony was held to award certificates to all those who contributed to saving the greatest number of lives during Spain’s worst disaster in 25 years. These certificates recognized the assistance provided to reconstruction and support to the affected population.
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