Madbouly and IFRC President Discuss Humanitarian Aid for Gaza

Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly met with Kate Forbes of the IFRC to discuss humanitarian cooperation for Gaza. They highlighted Egypt’s commitment to aid delivery and reconstruction efforts, acknowledging the challenges posed by restrictive conditions. Egypt has already provided substantial aid and seeks to deepen collaboration with the IFRC for future recovery initiatives.

On Tuesday, Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly engaged in discussions with Kate Forbes, President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Their meeting, which included Minister of Social Solidarity Maya Morsy and Ambassador Mohamed Mounir, focused on humanitarian cooperation relating to the Gaza Strip and highlighted Egypt’s role in providing essential aid.

Prime Minister Madbouly recognized the IFRC as the largest network of humanitarian organizations, comprising over 190 national societies and 16 million volunteers. He reiterated Egypt’s dedication to ongoing collaboration with the IFRC, especially concerning the recovery and reconstruction initiatives in Gaza.

Madbouly emphasized, “Egypt will remain committed to providing the necessary assistance to the residents of the Gaza Strip,” while expressing concern about “Israeli practices that prevent the entry of aid.” He underscored that the people of Gaza are in urgent need of assistance, particularly during Ramadan.

He reported that, despite existing challenges, Egypt successfully delivered over 7,000 aid trucks to Gaza from January 19 to March 2, with “70% of this assistance” originating from Egypt since the onset of the crisis in October 2023. He conveyed hope that the IFRC network would contribute to the early recovery and reconstruction plans, especially in the initial six-month phase.

The Prime Minister also mentioned Egypt’s efforts in accommodating Sudanese refugees, announcing the establishment of five humanitarian service points along the Sudanese border by the Egyptian Red Crescent. Additionally, he affirmed Egypt’s commitment to the stability and unity of Syria.

Kate Forbes commended the strong partnership between the IFRC and the Egyptian government, recognizing Egypt’s substantial role in delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. Her discussions with Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty and Minister Morsy reiterated this commitment.

Forbes stated, “Egypt played the most prominent role in terms of delivering humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip,” and expressed her eagerness to collaborate with Egypt on the humanitarian aspects of the Gaza reconstruction plan. She also noted that the IFRC intends to enhance its regional operations through Egyptian cooperation.

Minister Maya Morsy conveyed her appreciation for the Prime Minister’s efforts in facilitating humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza and expressed optimism about working together with the IFRC on the reconstruction plan’s humanitarian aspects.

In conclusion, the meeting between Prime Minister Madbouly and IFRC President Kate Forbes highlighted Egypt’s pivotal role in providing humanitarian aid to Gaza and its commitment to collaboration with international humanitarian organizations. With significant aid already delivered, Egypt aims to further support recovery and reconstruction initiatives, while also addressing the needs of Sudanese refugees. Strengthened cooperation with the IFRC is anticipated to enhance Egypt’s capacity in the ongoing humanitarian efforts.

Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com