Brussels, 20/09/2023 (Agence Europe) – On Wednesday 20 September, members of the European Parliament’s Committee on Budgets (BUDG) approved aid of €455 million from the EU Solidarity Fund for Romania, Italy and Turkey in response to recent natural disasters (26 votes in favour, 1 against and 2 abstentions). Romania will receive €33.9 million for drought damage in 2022, Italy €20.9 million for flooding in September 2022 and Turkey €400 million for two major earthquakes in February 2023. The aid will cover emergency and recovery operations, including infrastructure repairs and the protection of cultural heritage. The Council of the EU approved this aid on 18 September (see EUROPE 13252/28). The European Parliament plenary vote is scheduled for the first plenary session in October. (PLD)