ISLAMABAD: First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, MNA, on Thursday visited Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) headquarters and inaugurated the Begum Nusrat Bhutto Library there.

She also visited an exhibition, “Humanitarian Journey of PRCS”.

The first lady was briefed on the humanitarian work, historical role and relief efforts undertaken by the PRCS since its establishment in 1947, including its nationwide volunteer network and youth engagement initiatives.

The exhibition showcased the humanitarian journey of PRCS, including disaster response operations and historical relief activities.

During the meeting, Ms Bhutto was informed that students from universities and educational institutions would benefit from the library facility, while PRCS has also established youth clubs across the country and is running mentorship programmes for young volunteers.

Speaking on the occasion, the first lady appreciated the humanitarian services being carried out by PRCS and assured her full support in making the organisation more effective and active in serving vulnerable communities.

She said PRCS was playing an important role in the service of humanity and that its humanitarian mission needs to be carried forward with dedication and seriousness.

Ms Bhutto recorded her remarks in the visitors’ book, stating that she was continuing the legacy of humanitarian service associated with her grandmother, Begum Nusrat Bhutto, her mother, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, and her father, who serves as president of the society.

She also expressed appreciation and best wishes for the PRCS’s continued service to humanity.

PRCS Chairperson Farzhana Naek said the inauguration of the Begum Nusrat Bhutto Library was a tribute to the enduring legacy of compassion, public service and humanitarian leadership of late Begum Nusrat Bhutto. She said Begum Nusrat Bhutto and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto had played an important role in promoting humanitarian values and supporting the mission of PRCS through their engagement with vulnerable communities.

She also thanked President Asif Ali Zardari, who is also president of their National Society, for his support. She said the library would serve as a platform for learning, research and inspiration for youth, volunteers and future humanitarians.

Later, the first lady met PRCS volunteer children at the headquarters and appreciated their commitment and participation in humanitarian and community service activities.

Andreas Weissenberg, IFRC Head of Delegation in Pakistan; Christoph Sutter, ICRC Head of Delegation in Pakistan; Beyza Taner, Head of Delegation Turkish Red Crescent in Pakistan; Asif Aman Khan, head of Office, German Red Cross in Pakistan; Dr Ulugbek Aminov, head of delegation, Norwegian Red Cross in Pakistan and Shazia Marri, MNA, were also present on the occasion.

Published in Dawn, May 15th, 2026