QRCS, American Red Cross discuss joint humanitarian work
Gulf Times
During the two-day dialogue sessions, the two sides discussed issues of common interest and exchanged experiences in ways to deal with crises.
Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) held the first strategic dialogue with the American Red Cross, with the aim of exchanging visions and strategic plans in the field of humanitarian and relief work, especially the services for providing vaccines and helping the Afghan refugees and those in need in Afghanistan. During the two-day dialogue sessions, the two sides discussed issues of common interest and exchanged experiences in ways to deal with crises. The two sides also discussed a number of topics of mutual concern, including the Covid-19 Vaccine Fund, international rehabilitation and development, health and environmental sanitation, relief and response to disasters and crises, including the Afghan refugee crisis and the Covid-19. They also discussed opportunities for cooperation and work to sign joint cooperation agreements to embody the outcomes and recommendations of the first round of the strategic dialogue. HE QRSC Secretary-General Ambassador Ali bin Hassan Al Hammadi said the step is considered an extension of the bilateral relations between the State of Qatar and the United States of America, noting that the human aspect is no less important than the political, economic and other aspects of the relations between Qatar and the United States. He said that the areas of interest and objectives of QRCS and the American Red Cross, with regard to humanitarian and relief work, are common and reflect the responsibility of the two sides, and enshrine the approach of both countries that is based on giving and helping people wherever they are. HE Ambassador Al Hammadi welcomed the expanding horizons of the bilateral cooperation by signing various memoranda of understanding and exchanging experiences, aiming at benefiting from pioneering experiences and unifying joint efforts in several areas, especially with regard to the issues of vaccines and responding to the Afghanistan crisis, as well as ways to deal with disasters, mainly fires. For his part, Senior Vice President at the American Red Cross for the International Humanitarian Services and the Services to the Armed Forces Koby Langley praised the rapid response of the State of Qatar in supporting the Afghan refugees, facilitating the procedures for their movement and hosting them on its territory until they reach their final destinations. He also thanked the Qatar Red Crescent for its efforts in extending a helping hand for the Afghan refugees and Afghan citizens in need. Langley invited QRCS to sign memoranda of understanding with the American Red Cross in various fields aimed at providing support to the needy in the world. The first strategic dialogue sessions between QRSC and the American Red Cross took place over two days and focused on exchanging information, expertise and field experiences. The sessions will be completed in the coming weeks. Among the most important recommendations of the first strategic dialogue was the announcement of a framework agreement between the Qatar Red Crescent and the American Red Cross, to be signed soon.
