00:00Belgium is preparing a new national resilience plan after its largest forest fire in more than
00:05a century. The massive wildfire struck the High Fens Nature Reserve in eastern Belgium this week.
00:11More than 3,000 hectares of peatland and pine forest were burned in the blaze.
00:15The fire also forced evacuations before firefighters brought it under control on
00:20Thursday. Interior Minister Bernard Quintin says the disaster must lead to stronger preparations
00:26for future climate-related emergencies. He said wildfire risks will feature prominently
00:31in Belgium's new resilience strategy. The government also plans to increase resources
00:37for civil protection and emergency response. But opposition lawmakers criticized Belgium's
00:42preparedness and pointed to concerns over declining firefighter numbers. Officials also acknowledged
00:48the need for more helicopters and aircraft to fight major fires. European countries provided
00:54aircraft during the latest emergency. Highlighting the need for stronger wildfire readiness across
00:59Belgium and beyond. Disclosure. This video contains stock footage and content created or enhanced
01:04using AI-assisted tools.
