ABU DHABI — The United Arab Emirates, through its charity arm, the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC), is providing urgent aid to support civilians affected by wildfires in Greece.

The UAE also assisted the efforts aimed at putting out the fires by deploying a helicopter on the borders of the Greek capital, Athens.

An Emirati aircraft loaded with food, health supplies, children’s food supplements and firefighting materials, such as firefighting clothing, pumps, water hoses and relevant accessories, is expected to depart for Greece on Tuesday.

Dr. Mohammed Ateeq Al Falahi, ERC Secretary-General, said the directives of the UAE’s leadership underscore the country’s solidarity with the government and people of Greece in addressing the unprecedented wildfires in the country.

"This support highlights the UAE’s keenness to reduce the impact of the natural disaster taking place in Greece, as well as its unlimited solidarity with victims," Al Falahi added, noting the ERC’s complete readiness to help in such situations.

Some of the aid materials and equipment was provided by the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), he added while pointing out that phase one of the campaign will focus on providing firefighting materials and shelter requirements, to be followed by other phases that will provide for the various needs of the Greek population.

The ERC is closely monitoring the humanitarian conditions in Greece and is working in coordination with relevant authorities to offer the best services to those affected by the disaster, he said in conclusion. — WAM