ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) and the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSRelief) have agreed to enhance humanitarian cooperation.

A ceremony was held during which agreements were signed under the joint collaboration programme of the KSRelief. The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malki, KSRelief Assistant Supervisor General Engineer Ahmed Ali Al-Beez, Pakistan Red Crescent Society Chairman Sardar Shahid Ahmed Laghari, Director General National Commission for Human Development Nasiruddin Mashhood Ahmad, representative from National Disaster Management Authority and others.

During the ceremony, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the PRCS and KSRelief. The agreement, focused on strengthening humanitarian efforts, capacity building and enhancing collaboration in training and research, marks a significant step forward in the relationship between the two organisations. PRCS Chairman Sardar Shahid Ahmed Laghari and KSRelief Assistant Supervisor General Engineer Ahmed Ali Al-Beez signed the MoU on behalf of their respective organisations.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Laghari highlighted the significance of the day for the people of Pakistan, as it coincided with the remembrance of the devastating October 8, 2005 earthquake. Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malki also addressed the gathering, expressing his sentiments on the occasion.

“The bond between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Pakistan is deeply rooted in a shared history, faith and unwavering brotherhood. It is a relationship built on trust, mutual respect and solidarity, especially in times of need. Saudi Arabia has always stood by Pakistan in moments of crisis, whether in the wake of natural disasters or to provide vital humanitarian support,” the ambassador said.

Published in Dawn, October 9th, 2024