"As the devastating consequences of the earthquake continue to unfold, the only appropriate response is to take immediate action – both through financial support and by activating the various support networks we already have in place."
- Sirma Boshnakova, Allianz SE Board of Management member
Earlier this week, Allianz Group pledged €6m to support relief and recovery efforts in Turkey and Syria after the recent earthquakes. Oliver Bäte, Allianz SE chief executive and chairman of the Board of Management said that this commitment is an “expression of our solidarity with our colleagues and customers, as well as with their loved ones, who have been affected by the earthquakes in the region.
“These resources are also an expression of our unwavering confidence in the ability of societies and individuals to rebuild and thrive in the wake of natural disasters. The people of Allianz, everywhere in the world, are at the ready to play our part in supporting those efforts,” Bäte continued.
In support of a special local fund providing immediate relief to people directly affected by the crisis, Allianz has already mobilized €1m via a collaboration of Allianz Türkiye, Allianz Partners, and Allianz Trade in Turkey. This support will help support search & rescue teams, housing & relocation operations, and provision for necessary supplies. Of this amount, €500,000 have already been deployed.
The insurer has also announced that it will match employee donations of up to €1m, with an internal donation campaign already underway. Allianz’s Employee Assistance Program – available to all colleagues globally 24 hours a day – has been actively supporting more than 2,000 Allianz colleagues in the wake of the disaster.
Commenting on these actions, Sirma Boshnakova, Allianz SE Board of Management member, has said:
“As the devastating consequences of the earthquake continue to unfold, the only appropriate response is to take immediate action – both through financial support and by activating the various support networks we already have in place.
“Allianz has had strong, historic ties with Turkey and its communities for a century, and we are doing our utmost to ensure the safety and support of our customers and colleagues who have been directly contributing on the ground.”
Tolga Gurkan, Allianz Türkiye chief executive, added:
“We are in close contact with our full ecosystem, including with our teammates across Allianz Türkiye, Allianz Partners and Allianz Trade, and with public authorities, NGOs, municipalities and medical associations. Together, we will overcome this difficult time and rebuild stronger than ever.”