Emirates Red Crescent chief hails UAE’s global humanitarian role

In the run-up to World Humanitarian Day, Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed urged nations to come together to support those caught up in conflict and disaster

A plane in Dubai is loaded with goods for victims of the explosion in Beirut on August 4. Dubai Media Office

The chairman of the UAE’s leading humanitarian organisation has highlighted the country’s vital role in delivering aid to people in need around the globe.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed, chairman of Emirates Red Crescent and the Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra, hailed the Emirates for supporting those affected by disasters and conflicts

In the run up to World Humanitarian Day, on August 19, he said much was owed to the work of both Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, in shaping the nation’s rapid response to pressing global problems.

Sheikh Hamdan said the country’s medical and financial aid to countries hardest hit by the Covid-19 pandemic exemplified the Emirates’ approach.

The UAE was also quick to show solidarity with Lebanon after the devastating explosion in Beirut on August 4.

Sheikh Hamdan called on the international community to help shoulder the responsibility for easing the hardship caused by poverty and hunger around the world.

“The world must make the best out of World Humanitarian Day by exerting all efforts, exchanging ideas and co-ordinating programmes and operations to save the lives of millions of people who are in danger,” he said.

Sheikh Hamdan thanked ERC volunteers and staff working on the ground in crisis-hit areas and conflict zones for supporting people living in difficult conditions.

He saluted the sacrifices made by the humanitarian staff and volunteers who had died in the line of duty.