Commissioner Lahbib joins national commemoration in Switzerland for victims of Crans Montana fire

Commissioner for Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib is participating today in the official national commemoration honouring the victims of the Crans Montana fire and expressing solidarity with the injured, their families and the communities affected. The ceremony, held in Martigny on the national day of mourning, will bring together the Swiss federal and cantonal authorities, international partners and representatives of the countries touched by the tragedy.

Commissioner Lahbib expressed that:

' today is a moment of remembrance and solidarity. We honour those who lost their lives, and our hearts are with the injured and with the families whose lives were changed forever. In the face of such loss, words are never enough. What matters is presence: honouring the victims, showing respect, and standing together in quiet solidarity '

On this occasion, the Commissioner's presence reflects the European Union's solidarity with Switzerland in a moment of collective remembrance. The commemoration will include a minute of silence observed nationwide and addresses of solidarity.

The European Union provided operational support following Switzerland's request for assistance. In close cooperation with the Swiss authorities, the EU's Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) supported the medical evacuation of 38 patients to Belgium, France, Germany and Italy, with transport ensured by France, Italy, Luxembourg, Romania and Switzerland. Specialised medical teams from France and Italy, deployed through the ERCC, supported Swiss hospitals by carrying out clinical assessments and contributing to decisions on treatment and transfers. 2 ERCC liaison officers are deployed on the ground too, helping to coordinate the operation. In addition, the EU offered in-kind assistance in the form of specialised medical blades, provided by Germany and Austria.

The Commission remains in full solidarity with Switzerland as it honours the victims and continues to support those affected by the tragedy.