Red Cross president highlights collaboration with Turkish Red Crescent in Syria
Mirjana Spoljaric Egger , President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), answers AA reporter's questions after her meeting with Turkish Red Crescent President Fatma Meric Yilmaz in Ankara. (AA Photo)
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) President Mirjana Spoljaric Egger emphasized plans for closer collaboration with the Turkish Red Crescent in Syria’s reconstruction efforts.
Egger said, “We will explore how to combine our resources with the Turkish Red Crescent and increase our impact on people because humanitarian needs remain immense, particularly in the country’s north, including Idlib and Aleppo.”
Egger spoke to Turkish reporters after meeting with the Turkish Red Crescent President Fatma Meric Yilmaz in Ankara, underscoring the critical partnership between the organizations.
“The Turkish Red Crescent is a key partner for us. We are working together in 16 countries affected by armed conflicts,” she said, highlighting discussions on enhancing joint efforts.
Today, I had the great honor of hosting ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric at our Headquarters in Ankara. During this meeting, we discussed issues of common conscience for humanity, such as humanitarian aid in Syria, joint efforts to combat global crises, and support for vulnerable communities.
Each meeting finds its response not only at the table but also in the field, in heart-touching work. As the Red Crescent, we continue our responsibility to keep people alive with the same determination, no matter what the difficulties.
This meeting was a strong demonstration of solidarity across borders, raising hope and joining hands for humanity.
Turkish Red Crescent President Fatma Meric Yilmaz
Addressing critical needs in northern Syria
Egger noted that while significant work has been done to provide water and electricity to Syrians during the civil war, much remains to be achieved.
“We will explore how to combine our resources with the Turkish Red Crescent and increase our impact on people because humanitarian needs remain immense, particularly in the country’s north, including Idlib and Aleppo,” she reiterated.
She stressed the need to focus on improving Syria‘s health care system, as many residents require medical attention.
The ICRC and Turkish Red Crescent are also cooperating to assist families searching for loved ones who went missing during the conflict.
Supporting Syria’s recovery efforts
Egger highlighted ICRC’s extensive humanitarian operations in Syria, which include providing access to clean water, electricity, food and shelter. “We have unhindered access across Syria,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of addressing basic needs.
The ICRC has developed a $100 million program to support these efforts and is urging financial backers to ensure uninterrupted aid.
Egger also stressed the significance of infrastructure projects in Syria’s recovery, particularly during the early stages of rebuilding.
Call for international attention to Syria
“We call on the international community to remain focused on Syria,” said Egger, noting the country’s fragile position in an unstable region.
“Humanitarian needs are still at critical levels. Respecting international humanitarian law and ensuring the protection of critical infrastructure will contribute to stabilizing the country,” she added.
She also highlighted Türkiye’s vital role in alleviating suffering and reinforcing respect for international humanitarian law, expressing enthusiasm about expanding the partnership with the Turkish Red Crescent.
