Bahrain Red Crescent moves to boost cooperation with ICRC

MANAMA - The Bahrain Red Crescent Society (BRCS) is stepping up its humanitarian cooperation with the International Committee of the Red Cross, following high level talks in Manama focused on strengthening joint response frameworks and expanding collaboration across relief and training programmes.

The meeting, held at the Society’s headquarters in the Diplomatic Area, brought together Lieutenant-General Doctor Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Chairman of BRCS, Mamadou Sow, Head of Delegation at International Committee of the Red Cross - ICRC, and Mubarak Al Hadi, Secretary General of the Society, along with senior officials from both sides.

Discussions centered on enhancing coordination in responding to humanitarian crises and developing more agile and effective mechanisms to address evolving challenges across the region. Both sides also agreed to expand joint training initiatives aimed at strengthening the capabilities of volunteers and humanitarian personnel in line with international standards.

Participants from the ICRC included Ali Al Housh and Hassan Idris Mubarak, both Cooperation Coordinators, and Dilem, Deputy Head of Operations, while officials and committee heads from the Bahrain Red Crescent Society attended to represent key operational and training functions.

Further coordination was agreed for a series of follow up meetings between the ICRC delegation and the Society’s specialized committees, with a focus on deepening technical cooperation, exchanging expertise and addressing field level challenges to ensure better alignment of humanitarian efforts.

Lieutenant-General Doctor Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa said the Society places strong importance on strengthening its partnership with the ICRC, particularly considering the exceptional circumstances facing the region. The Chairman noted that continued engagement with the ICRC allows the Society to benefit from global experience and refine its approach to aid distribution and relief operations, helping ensure assistance reaches beneficiaries efficiently and without delay.

Mamadou Sow praised the Bahrain Red Crescent Society for its ongoing work, highlighting its role in first aid services and psychosocial support, and said the Society has drawn strong participation from across Bahrain and the Gulf through its specialized training programmes, adding that expanding these efforts contributes to building more resilient and prepared communities.

Sow also reaffirmed the ICRC’s interest in further strengthening cooperation with the Society, building on a longstanding humanitarian partnership and a track record of joint achievements in the field.

Mubarak Al Hadi said the Society’s strength lies in its highly trained national cadres and its readiness to respond immediately to humanitarian emergencies. The Secretary General added that the Society’s achievements locally and internationally reflect its adherence to the core principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.