UAE president orders aid to Brazil after devastating floods

Dubai: President Sheikh Mohamed has directed aid to Brazil to assist those affected by severe floods. The directive followed a phone call with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, as state news agency WAM reported.

Sheikh Mohamed expressed sympathy for the families of the flood victims and those injured. President da Silva thanked Sheikh Mohamed for the support and extended his condolences over the death of Sheikh Hazza bin Sultan bin Zayed.

During their call, the leaders discussed strengthening cooperation in the economy, technology, renewable energy and food security. They also affirmed their support for peace and stability efforts in the Middle East.

The floods have devastated dozens of towns in Brazil, including Porto Alegre, where the city centre remains submerged. In Rio Grande do Sul, the death toll reached 149 on Thursday, with 108 people still missing, according to Reuters. State officials reported that over 136,000 people have lost access to water.

President da Silva announced on Wednesday that the government would provide 5,100 Brazilian reals ($990) to 240,000 families who lost their homes or furniture in the floods.