After heavy rains caused floods and landslides in the western Saarland in Germany, Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited the affected region today, DPA reported.
The German chancellor got acquainted with the situation on the spot and assured the local residents that the federal government stands in solidarity with them, BTA specifies.
Scholz stressed that the priority now is to provide emergency aid. He said that once the immediate danger has passed, the government will coordinate with local authorities to determine what help will be needed.
The German chancellor, wearing rubber boots and accompanied by the regional premier of Saarland, Anke Rellinger, walked through flooded streets and spoke to affected local residents.
"We have a strong tradition of solidarity," Scholz said. "Unfortunately, this is not the first time we have had to deal with a major natural disaster, so of course we will look at what can be done now and what will be needed," he added.
Scholz canceled his campaign appearance scheduled for today to visit the flood-affected region together with the regional premier.
"No one should be left out in the rain in this difficult situation," said Anke Rellinger.