Dhaka, June 6, 2024: Kate Forbes, President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), has pledged continued humanitarian support to Bangladesh amidst global crises. During her maiden visit, Forbes highlighted the critical need for sustained assistance, considering recent challenges such as the devastating heatwave and Cyclone Remal.
Ms. Forbes met with the Hon’ble Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who expressed gratitude for the Bangladesh Red Crescent’s support during disasters and other crises. Ms. Forbes reaffirmed IFRC and its partners’ commitment to continuous humanitarian support for Bangladesh including the displaced people from the Rakhine state of Myanmar.
In her meeting with Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud, Ms. Forbes discussed the evolving situation in Myanmar’s Rakhine State and the ongoing humanitarian support in Cox’s Bazar camps. Ms. Forbes also met with Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Samanta Lal Sen, State Minister Dr. Rokeya Sultana, and State Minister for Disaster Management and Relief Mr. Md. Mohibbur Rahman. The discussions focused on strategies to address climate change impacts and improve disaster and pandemic preparedness.
Kate Forbes, President of IFRC said:
“My visit to Bangladesh has been profoundly enlightening. The work of Bangladesh Red Crescent is not only strengthening vulnerable communities but also saving lives through disaster risk reduction and community resilience efforts.”
IFRC President also visited Khulna and Cox’s Bazar camps, witnessing firsthand efforts of household items, clean water distribution, and healthcare support for Cyclone Remal-affected communities and camp residents. She praised the Red Crescent youth and community volunteers for their tireless work and highlighted the role of the newly inaugurated Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) at the National Headquarters of Bangladesh Red Crescent in enhancing disaster response capabilities. During her visit to Bangladesh, she visited the renowned Holy family Red Crescent Hospital.
Professor Dr. M.U. Kabir Chowdhury, Chairman of BDRCS Said:
“We are committed to reinforcing our disaster response mechanisms to protect the most vulnerable community in our society, through the support of the IFRC and the international community, we can enhance our anticipatory actions and ensure that our preparedness saves lives and restores hope. Alongside, we are committed to achieving financial sustainability for our organization to enhance our humanitarian action.”
In meetings with various stakeholders and partners, Ms. Forbes reiterated the IFRC’s dedication to innovative, sustainable solutions. These discussions were supported by IFRC’s Asia Pacific Regional Director Alexander Mathew, Bangladesh Head of Delegation Alberto Bocanegra, and Bangladesh Red Crescent’s Vice Chairman Lutfur Rahman Chowdhury Helal, Treasurer Mohammad Abdus Salam, Secretary General Kazi Shofiqul Azam, and Deputy Secretary General Sultan Ahmed.