UAE, IFRC Discuss Stronger Humanitarian Ties To Support Vulnerable Communities

Senior UAE official Sultan Mohammed Al Shamsi and International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) top representative Xavier Castellanos Mosquera met in Abu Dhabi on Monday to reaffirm their commitment to working together to deliver urgent aid to those most in need, especially children, women, the elderly, and the sick.

During the discussion at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Al Shamsi, UAE's assistant minister of Foreign Affairs for Development and International Organisations, praised IFRC's global efforts and highlighted the country's strong support for humanitarian work and its role in helping ease suffering worldwide, WAM reported.

Meanwhile, IFRC Under Secretary General Mosquera thanked the UAE for its strong support of the IFRC and praised the country's important role in global humanitarian work. He also acknowledged the efforts of the Emirates Red Crescent Society (ERCS) in improving emergency healthcare.

To strengthen this partnership, the ERCS plans to work more closely with the IFRC to build its emergency health system, aiming to respond faster and more effectively to future crises.

Both officials also reviewed their current projects and discussed ways to expand cooperation. This includes improving emergency preparedness, better coordination during responses, and offering long-term help to communities in need.

They also emphasized the need to follow key humanitarian principles like neutrality and fairness. They agreed that strong partnerships are crucial for handling today's increasing humanitarian challenges.

The UAE and the IFRC under secretary general also plan to explore new ways to work together that match current needs and shared goals.

The meeting showcased the long-standing relationship between the UAE and the IFRC, with both committed to providing timely and effective aid that respects human dignity and promotes solidarity.

The UAE has a long history of providing humanitarian aid to countries in need, including disaster relief efforts. Last week, the UAE National Guard Command said that National Ambulance handled 22,903 emergency cases across the country in the first quarter of 2025 (January to March).

Out of these cases, 9,372 patients received medical treatment at the scene, while 13,531 were taken to hospitals for further care. This highlights National Ambulance's dedication to providing fast and efficient emergency services.