State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam today called for stronger collaboration between the Foreign Ministry and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to bolster climate resilience initiatives, with a particular focus on addressing the needs and vulnerabilities of women and children.
The call came as Alberto Bocanegra, Head of Delegation of the IFRC to Bangladesh, paid a farewell visit to Shama at the foreign ministry. During the meeting, Bocanegra briefed the state minister on the IFRC's key humanitarian activities and achievements during his tenure in Bangladesh.
Bocanegra highlighted the organization's support for disaster preparedness, climate resilience, health services, and assistance to displaced populations. He expressed appreciation for the continued support and constructive cooperation extended by the Bangladesh government throughout his tenure.
Shama congratulated Bocanegra on the successful completion of his tenure and commended his leadership of the IFRC in Bangladesh. She recalled the IFRC's longstanding partnership with Bangladesh since the country's Liberation War and appreciated its valuable contributions to emergency response and humanitarian assistance over the years.
The state minister particularly acknowledged the IFRC's sustained support during natural disasters, including floods, cyclones, and other climate-induced emergencies. She also appreciated the organization's assistance to the Rohingya humanitarian response in Bangladesh.
Against the backdrop of Bangladesh's growing vulnerability to climate-induced disasters, Shama underscored the importance of deepening cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the IFRC on climate resilience, particularly through initiatives addressing the needs and vulnerabilities of women and children.
