KUWAIT: The Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS) announced the signing of several agreements to implement humanitarian projects in south and central Asia, specifically Afghanistan, Pakistan and Tajikistan, KUNA reported. The agreements, it said, are an extension of Kuwait’s role towards afflicted societies and countries around the world and alleviating the suffering of people.

In Afghanistan, KRCS has signed an agreement with the Afghan Red Crescent Society to support a project which provides medical and surgical support to children with congenital heart defects, KRCS Chairman Dr Hilal Al-Sayer told KUNA.

In Pakistan, the society signed a memorandum of understanding with the Pakistan Red Crescent to work on a housing project for families affected by floods. According to Islamic Relief, the ongoing 2024 monsoon season has caused significant devastation across Pakistan, particularly in the provinces of Balochistan, Punjab, and Sindh.

HYDERABAD: Flood-affected people walk past their make-shift tents along a roadside after heavy monsoon rains in Hyderabad, Sindh province on August 30, 2024. — AFP
KRCS Chairman Dr Hilal Al-Sayer.

Heavy rains have resulted in widespread flooding, landslides, and infrastructure damage. As of September 1, 2024, 306 people have died across the country, including 155 children. Additionally, 584 people have been injured, 212 of whom are children. The floods have damaged 20,646 houses and there has been significant infrastructure damage to bridges and roads.

The society has also signed a memorandum of understanding with the Tajik Red Crescent to provide the necessary relief supplies to those affected by the floods and rains in the central Asian country. Dr Al-Sayer said the agreements indicate the spirit of cooperation between humanitarian associations, pointing to the common denominators that bring together national societies in providing humanitarian aid to the needy.

He stated that the association’s strategy in the implementation of projects enhances the long-term effects of humanitarian aid to countries in need. Dr Al-Sayer said KRCS puts great emphasis on coordinating efforts among humanitarian societies and promoting the concept of partnership, which is one of the basic components of KRCS’ vision.