(Al-Bireh - 26/9/2018): A delegation from the Icelandic Red Cross chaired by its Secretary General Kristín Hjálmtýsdóttir concluded a five-day visit to the oPt. The delegation visited several PRCS’ branches in the West Bank, including in occupied Jerusalem, to get better acquainted with their work as well as with the humanitarian situation and needs of Palestinians caused by the Israeli occupation.
The delegation was received by PRCS’ President Dr. Younis Al Khatib, its Director General Dr. Khaled Joudeh and several heads of Departments who spoke about the Society’s humanitarian interventions and discussed means to promote cooperation between the two National Societies to the benefit of Palestinians both at home and in the Diaspora.
The Icelandic guests toured PRCS’ Headquarters and were briefed about its programs. They then visited PRCS’ branches in Hebron, Qalqilia and Nablus where they got acquainted with the humanitarian services they offer especially to underprivileged Palestinians, and with difficulties facing emergency medical teams in the line of duty as a result of Israeli practices.
Ms. Hjálmtýsdóttir said she was happy to partake in these visits and valued the key role played by PRCS and its volunteers in the health, psychological and humanitarian fields, adding that cooperation will continue between the two Societies with a view to building the capacities of PRCS and its staff.
Dr. Al Khatib explained that this visit was part of efforts aimed at ensuring continuous cooperation and coordination with the Icelandic Red Cross to help alleviate the suffering of Palestinians. “PRCS’ is making every possible effort to promote community-based and humanitarian action”, he added.
The Icelandic guests also visited PRCS’ branch in Jerusalem where they were received by Dr. Abdallah Sabri, Head of the branch’s Administrative Committee, and several Committee members. They then toured PRCS’ hospital in the city as well as the Old City of Jerusalem, Al Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
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