Azerbaijan’s PM contacts Türkiye’s VP in wake of Istanbul earthquakes

Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov held a telephone conversation with Türkiye's Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz following a series of earthquakes that struck Istanbul.

The two officials expressed concern over the tremors and discussed the ongoing response measures being undertaken by the relevant Turkish authorities to assess the situation and mitigate the aftermath, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

Asadov reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s solidarity with Türkiye, stressing that his country, as always, stands beside its "brotherly nation" during this challenging time.

​To recall, on April 23, 2025, a 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck Istanbul at 12:49 PM local time, with its epicentre located approximately 40 kilometres southwest of the city in the Sea of Marmara. The tremor, occurring at a shallow depth of 10 kilometres, was felt across western Turkey, including cities like Bursa, Izmir, and Tekirdağ. The quake caused widespread panic, leading to over 150 reported injuries, predominantly from individuals leaping from buildings in fear. 

While no major structural collapses were initially reported, a derelict building in Istanbul's historic Fatih district did fall. Authorities recorded over 50 aftershocks, the strongest measuring 5.9. In response, Istanbul's schools were closed for two days as a precaution, and open areas such as schoolyards were made available to the public. ​

The earthquake coincided with a public holiday, which may have reduced potential casualties in schools. Emergency services, including over 3,500 personnel, 250 vehicles, and 18 rescue dogs, were deployed to the affected areas. ​

Experts warn that the quake has increased stress along the North Anatolian Fault, raising concerns about a potential larger seismic event. Urban transformation projects are underway to retrofit vulnerable structures, with approximately 165,000 residences currently being renovated. ​

Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and avoid compromised buildings, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in this seismically active region.

By Aghakazim Guliyev