Today, Europe is the fastest-warming continent on the planet. Fires are becoming larger, faster, and more destructive — both in Greece and beyond.

Europe takes this threat seriously, and I know Greece does as well. These new firefighting vehicles are proof of that. Greece is not facing these challenges alone — you are part of our strong European Civil Protection family. I am in Greece this week to support your firefighting efforts and to reaffirm that the EU is here to assist you.

These firefighting vehicles are not just impressive machines. They symbolize protection, preparedness, and partnership. They demonstrate the strength of a shared project, part of Greeces “AIGIS” program, a flagship investment in civil protection, co-financed by the European Union.

These vehicles exemplify preparedness on the ground — operational and ready to serve.

Greece has repeatedly shown that solidarity is not an empty slogan — it is your commitment. Since 2016, you have responded to 21 requests for wildfire assistance, and just this month you stepped up three times for your neighbors.

When Greece is in need, the EU is there too. After COVID, the EU adopted the Recovery and Resilience Facility, a massive plan to emerge stronger and more resilient from the pandemic. Greece made the smart choice to invest these funds in preparedness. These vehicles will strengthen public services to help protect communities across Greece.

From the devastating fires in Alexandroupolis in 2023 to the threats we face this summer, you can count on the EU.

We have positioned 22 firefighting planes and 4 helicopters across the continent, including four planes based right here in Greece. Our Emergency Response Coordination Centre in Brussels is ready 24/7, working hand in hand with your national services.

Greece also plays an important role in hosting firefighters from around the EU — ready to act fast when a fire breaks out. I have even heard stories of Greek families cheering the guest firefighters as they pass through their villages. Moments like that show what Europe truly is — not just institutions or treaties, but people standing together when it counts most.

We are not only responding. We are preparing.

That is why we launched our Preparedness Strategy, the EUs first comprehensive approach to preparedness. Greece is also strengthening its own national preparedness to keep its people safe, and we support your efforts.

But preparedness is about more than policies. It is about political will and the desire to invest. We see that investment here today with these new firefighting vehicles.

Thank you for what you are doing here in Greece and for the leadership you show across Europe. Together, we are building a new culture of preparedness, rooted in solidarity. Together, we will be ready for whatever comes next.