Some 16 billion euros will be delivered this year after the necessary legislation is approved by the Bundesrat (Senate).

Malu Dreyer, prime minister in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate, welcomed the decision, and said that the federal Government will now facilitate reconstruction.

Heavy rainfalls caused that Rhine River to burst its banks, resulting in numerous floods, which killed 200 people.

The central government is expected to provide two billion euros for the repair of bridges and highways, in addition to another 28 billion euros.

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