Taipei Mayor Ma Ying-jeou (馬英九) yesterday thanked representatives of international rescue workers who were central to rescue efforts in the aftermath of last year's devastating earthquake.
Just days before the one-year anniversary of the 921 earthquake, Ma pledged to over 600 people gathered at for a memorial service at Taipei City Government auditorium that the city will continue with its reconstruction efforts.
"While rescue work is over, reconstruction still has a long way to go," he said. "Our mission is not yet over and I promise you that the city will continue with the work, no matter how long it takes."
PHOTO: CHIANG YING-YING, TAIPEI TIMES
The 921 earthquake claimed a total of 87 lives in Taipei, all of whom were residents at the Tunghsing Building (
Seven of the 87 were elementary school students, three were junior high school students and six were senior high school students.
Throughout Taiwan nearly 2,300 people died and 100,000 were made homeless.
More than 700 international rescue workers from 21 countries flew in to disaster areas for search and rescue work.
Ma said yesterday the city was grateful to the 15 rescue workers from six countries who were attending the ceremony as guests of honor.
Speaking on behalf of the Russian International Search and Rescue Coordination Section, with the help of a translator, Vladimir Boreiko said the reason Russia joined the rescue mission was simple.
"We just couldn't sit at home and pretend that nothing had happened," he said. "Only those who have suffered before know and have the compassion to help those who are suffering."
Ozgur Bozoglu, spokesman for the Turkish Search, Rescue and Ecology Team from Gea, said that flashbacks from the tragedy continue to make his heart ache.
"The world is a big family and we're brothers and sisters," he said. "When our brothers and sisters are suffering, we empathize with them."
Andy Hubert from the US, of the Fairfax Fire and Rescue Department, said his two trips to Taiwan were an overwhelming experience.
"When I came here a year ago, I had a job to do and that was to search and rescue everyone we could find in the rubble. It was strenuous and time-consuming but rewarding," he said.
"This time I have the time to see the true state of Taiwan. The hospitality is incredible and I'm grateful for the welcome we have received."
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