Diplomatic Desk:
Alberto Bocanegra, Head of Delegation of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), paid a courtesy call on Shama Obaed Islam, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the Government of Bangladesh, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday (12 April 2026).
During the meeting, the State Minister expressed gratitude for the long-standing partnership between Bangladesh and IFRC. He recalled the organization’s important humanitarian assistance since the Bangladesh Liberation War. He appreciated the IFRC’s rapid and effective role in responding to natural disasters, the COVID-19 pandemic, and community-based disaster management.
The State Minister emphasized the involvement of young volunteers in disaster preparedness, especially in cyclone early warning and safe evacuation activities.
He also said that the contribution of IFRC and Bangladesh Red Crescent Society in Rohingya humanitarian assistance is commendable. Their activities are playing a significant role in providing healthcare and safe drinking water, especially in Cox’s Bazar. He also called on the IFRC to take possible initiatives to expand humanitarian activities in Bhasan Char.
Meanwhile, Alberto Bocanegra reiterated IFRC’s commitment to further strengthen humanitarian cooperation with the Government of Bangladesh. He expressed his willingness to support the government’s efforts to combat the ongoing measles outbreak in the country. He also said that IFRC’s cooperation will continue to enhance disaster response capacity, develop effective response systems and advance community resilience programs.
