RABAT, Jan. 18 (Xinhua) -- Morocco sent on Thursday a humanitarian aid to Madagascar, following tropical cyclone Ava that hit recently the country, the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said.

The tropical storm hit the island country off the south-eastern coast of Africa earlier this month, killing at least dozens nationwide and forcing thousands from their homes.

"This action is part of the sincere friendship, the fruitful cooperation and the effective solidarity with this brotherly country," the ministry said in a statement.

The humanitarian aid of 30 tons consists of tents, blankets and basic foodstuffs, the statement pointed out.