Riyadh, November 5, 2024 – A High-Level Meeting Between Saudi Minister of Health and ICRC President to Strengthen Humanitarian Collaboration
In a significant diplomatic development, the Minister of Health and Chairman of the Saudi Red Crescent Authority (SRCA), Fahd bin Abdulrahman Al-Jalajel, hosted International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) President Mirjana Spoljaric in Riyadh on Monday, November 5. The meeting, held at the SRCA’s headquarters, forms part of Spoljaric's official visit to the Kingdom, aimed at reinforcing the long-standing humanitarian partnership between Saudi Arabia and the ICRC.
The discussions during the meeting centered on strengthening coordination and enhancing joint efforts to provide essential humanitarian support to vulnerable communities across the globe. Both parties emphasized the importance of strategic collaboration to ensure timely, efficient, and effective disaster response in some of the world’s most affected regions.
As a focal point of the talks, the parties reviewed the SRCA’s role in delivering emergency assistance during crises, highlighting the authority’s capacity for rapid response and its continued commitment to international humanitarian principles. Al-Jalajel emphasized Saudi Arabia's longstanding support for global relief efforts, underscoring the Kingdom’s role as a leading force in promoting humanitarian causes worldwide.
Spoljaric, in her remarks, expressed deep appreciation for the SRCA’s pivotal role in humanitarian aid and crisis response. She commended the SRCA for its efficient operations, its ability to mobilize resources quickly, and its unwavering dedication to alleviating suffering in times of disaster. Furthermore, Spoljaric acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s remarkable contribution to international peacebuilding and humanitarian action, pointing to the Kingdom's continued leadership in the global effort to address pressing humanitarian needs.
During the meeting, both leaders also discussed future avenues for cooperation, specifically in terms of facilitating access to humanitarian assistance in conflict zones, disaster-stricken regions, and areas impacted by the global refugee crisis. The SRCA’s established infrastructure and its ability to work with both local and international partners were recognized as key strengths in driving forward these efforts.
Reflecting on the significance of the visit, Al-Jalajel noted that Spoljaric’s trip marks a new chapter in Saudi Arabia’s ongoing collaboration with the ICRC, solidifying their mutual commitment to humanitarian action and sustainable development. He highlighted that this partnership not only aligns with the Kingdom’s broader humanitarian values but also complements the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which calls for greater global cooperation and a stronger focus on humanitarian and social welfare.
Al-Jalajel further reiterated that the Kingdom's support for global humanitarian initiatives reflects its deep-rooted belief in fostering peace, stability, and well-being worldwide. As part of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia continues to position itself as a key partner in addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges, including conflict resolution, poverty alleviation, and the provision of life-saving aid to those in need.
The SRCA, under the leadership of Fahd bin Abdulrahman Al-Jalajel, remains at the forefront of the Kingdom’s humanitarian efforts, with a well-established track record of providing immediate assistance in emergency situations and contributing to the long-term recovery of communities affected by natural disasters and conflict. The meeting between Al-Jalajel and Spoljaric, as well as the ongoing collaboration between the SRCA and ICRC, further underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to promoting humanitarian values and ensuring that vital support reaches those who need it most.
Mirjana Spoljaric’s visit, which follows a series of diplomatic engagements aimed at enhancing global humanitarian cooperation, serves as an important milestone in the ongoing partnership between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the International Committee of the Red Cross. Both parties expressed optimism about the future of this relationship and the positive impact it will continue to have on vulnerable populations around the world.
As the visit draws to a close, both the SRCA and the ICRC have pledged to continue their work together, building on a shared foundation of compassion, collaboration, and commitment to alleviating human suffering. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through its active participation in international humanitarian efforts, remains steadfast in its goal to create a safer, more stable future for all.