As part of its latest international humanitarian efforts, the Emirates Red Crescent, ERC, has opened two camps in Greece to help house Syrian refugees fleeing the war in their country.

Commenting on the occasion, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in the Western Region, reiterated the UAE's commitment in its humanitarian responsibilities towards those affected by the Syrian crisis through its humanitarian relief programmes and developmental projects that meet the requirements of a dignified life for "Our Syrian brothers and sisters."

Located 360 miles from the Greek capital Athens, the first camp in the Larissa region includes 331 residential units to accommodate 2,000 people, a medical clinic, parks, and educational and sport facilities. The second facility, also located near Athens, will house almost 1,000 refugees, with 159 units and similar facilities.

The two camps were opened by a delegation from the Emirates Red Crescent, ERC, in the presence of Sultan Majid Ali, UAE Ambassador to Greece, and a number of local officials.

Sheikh Hamdan said that due to the massive human suffering as a result of events in Syria, the UAE and its leadership has been paying special attention to lending a hand to those affected and will spare no effort to strengthen their ability to cope with their circumstances.

Sheikh Hamdan also expressed his appreciation for the Greek authorities for providing logistical support and facilitation in quickly bringing these projects to fruition.

The new announcement follows the UAE declaration in September that it will be welcoming 15,000 Syrian refugees over the next five years.