Socotra, Yemen: The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) has distributed more than 35 tonnes of emergency relief material to the Yemeni island of Socotra, whose residents have been hit hard by Cyclone Chapala, which caused widespread damage and destruction in the country.

Dr Mohammad Ateeq Al Falahi, ERC Secretary-General, said that the emergency aid mission was organised in accordance with the directives of the UAE leadership to extend prompt assistance to Yemenis whose normal lives have been badly disrupted by the cyclone.

The ERC has provided food, blankets and tents to affected people, Dr Al Falahi said.

Saeed Salem Bahguibh, Governor of Socotra, lauded the UAE and the ERC for their fraternal ties and their support to the people of the island in their hour of need. The cyclone has caused the displacement of thousands of people from their villages and caused extensive damage to infrastructure and houses. He said that the UAE’s humanitarian efforts exemplified the spirit of cohesion and cooperation between the two countries.

Yemeni officials also hailed the considered humanitarian positions taken by the UAE with respect to crises, disasters and conflicts in other parts of the world with a strong emphasis on human solidarity.

People of cyclone-affected areas expressed their gratitude and appreciation to the UAE’s wise leadership and to Shaikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Western Region and Chairman of the ERC, for providing them with timely assistance in difficult circumstances.