Karachi, The 11th Asia-Pacific Regional Conference of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has concluded in Hanoi, Vietnam, marking a significant milestone in regional cooperation for disaster preparedness. The Pakistan Red Crescent Society was represented by its Honorable Chairman, Sardar Shahid Ahmad Laghari, at this pivotal event which was held over three days in November.
According to Pakistan Red Crescent Society, the conference, held every four years, brought together 350 delegates from over 50 national associations, the IFRC, international organizations, and the United Nations. The theme for this year’s conference, “Asia-Pacific prepared for disasters,” focused on the region’s vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters, a pressing global issue.
Discussion panels throughout the conference served as platforms for sharing experiences, professional knowledge, and initiatives. These discussions underscored the critical need for closer cooperation between organizations and countries in responding to natural disasters. Key points highlighted included the necessity for more accurate disaster forecasting, improved preparedness, and response capabilities to minimize human casualties and losses.
Chairman Sardar Shahid Ahmad Laghari actively participated in key discussions on climate change, disaster response mechanisms, and health priorities in the Asia-Pacific region. His engagements with leaders from the Global and Asia Pacific IFRC, as well as heads of several National Societies, were notably productive. Meetings with representatives from various societies, including the Saudi Red Crescent Authority, Iran Red Crescent Society, Vietnam Red Cross Society, and others, aimed to strengthen bonds and foster collaborative efforts in humanitarian work.
Significant dialogues were held with IFRC Secretary General Jagan Chapagain, Under Secretary General Xavier Castellanos Masjidera, and IFRC Regional Director Alexander Mathew, focusing on humanitarian interventions and the collective commitment to serving humanity. Chairman Laghari’s meeting with the Saudi Arabian delegation, led by Prince Abdullah bin Faisal Al Saud, emphasized the importance of international collaboration in addressing humanitarian challenges.
The conference also facilitated discussions with leaders from the Japanese Red Cross, Fiji Red Cross Society, Myanmar Red Cross, and Thailand Red Cross. These exchanges explored potential collaborations in humanitarian endeavors and disaster risk reduction efforts.
A noteworthy moment was the commendation by Prince Abdullah bin Faisal Al Saud of Chairman Laghari’s leadership during the 2022 floods, highlighting the effectiveness of such partnerships in global humanitarian initiatives. The 11th Asia-Pacific Regional Conference was a testament to the power of collective action and shared commitment in tackling humanitarian challenges in the region.