PM Kopacz stresses solidarity with Georgia post-flood
PR dla Zagranicy
Nick Hodge
16.06.2015 16:01
Prime Minister Ewa Kopacz has spoken on behalf of the Polish nation following flash floods that left at least 16 dead in Tbilisi over the weekend.
A handout picture provided by the Georgian Prime Minister's press office shows cars submerged in floodwaters in Tbilisi, Georgia, 14 June 2015. Photo: . EPA/BESO GULASHVILI
Georgian authorities confirmed on Tuesday that seven people are still missing in Tbilisi, while a number of animals from the city's zoo remain unaccounted for, after many escaped from their enclosures.
In a written statement of condolence, Prime Minister Ewa Kopacz said that “the Georgian nation can count on the solidarity of Poland and the Poles.
“I am convinced that Georgia, which has come through several tragedies, will also stand up to this one with fortitude.”
The devastation occurred after heavy rain on Saturday turned a stream that runs through Tbilisi into a torrent.
Many properties were destroyed and roads inundated.
Several wild animals including a hippopotamus and a crocodile managed to escape from the zoo (both now secured), but many others died in their water-logged enclosures.
Zookeepers said on Tuesday that all of the lions and tigers are now accounted for, although one jaguar remains missing.
Hundreds of dogs at a private shelter died as a result of the flooding. (nh)