Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier thanked the tens of thousands of helpers in the flood areas and expressed his respect. “Everyone who helps with this flood deserves the thanks of our entire nation,” explained Steinmeier. “This shows that when it comes down to it, our country stands together.”
In the written statement, Steinmeier announced that he had invited helpers from the voluntary fire brigade and the technical relief organization who had been involved in the fight against the floods to his New Year’s reception at Bellevue Palace next week. “We have to support everyone who protects and rescues and visibly recognize them all. They are role models.”
“In many parts of Germany the flooding continues to cause us problems,” explained the Federal President. In many places, the water masses have become a serious danger for people, animals and houses. “Our thoughts and solidarity these days go out to everyone who is threatened by flooding or has already suffered damage.” It is good that the federal, state and local governments have agreed to help quickly here. “We need national solidarity in such emergencies.”
Steinmeier: “Greatest respect”
He would like to thank the tens of thousands of helpers who have often been working since the run-up to Christmas to fill sandbags, seal dikes or pump out cellars. He thinks of the men and women of the fire brigades, the technical relief agency and the rescue services. Most of them work on a voluntary basis and sacrifice their free time to protect their community and their fellow citizens.
“Many are working to the point of exhaustion. I have the greatest respect for this voluntary commitment,” explained Steinmeier. He made a request to all companies and businesses: “Support the relief work of your employees and continue to release them temporarily to serve the public.”
The Federal President also thanked the neighboring countries that had offered help, especially France. A French civil defense team is currently building a mobile dike on the Aller in Lower Saxony. “We are grateful for this form of neighborly solidarity in Europe. It is good to know that Germany has helpful friends as neighbors,” explained Steinmeier.
