A high-level delegation from the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) paid a formal courtesy visit to the President of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, M Abdul Hamid, at the presidential palace, Bangabhaban, yesterday evening. The delegation was led by the Chairman of the BDRCS, Major General ATM Abdul Wahab (Retd.), and included several newly elected members of the Society’s governing board.
During the audience, the President was briefed on the comprehensive humanitarian initiatives currently being undertaken by the Society. As a key national affiliate of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement—the world’s most expansive humanitarian network—the BDRCS plays a pivotal role in the nation’s civil society. Major General Wahab provided an overview of the Society’s strategic objectives and sought the President’s continued patronage and cooperation in facilitating their mission to serve the vulnerable.
A Legacy of Compassion and Resilience
Since its inception, the BDRCS has remained a steadfast ally to the Bangladeshi people, particularly during times of acute national crisis. The President reflected on the Society’s historical contributions, noting their indispensable role in relief operations, search and rescue missions, and the long-term rehabilitation of survivors following devastating natural disasters. From the catastrophic cyclones that periodically sweep across the Bay of Bengal to the perennial challenge of monsoon flooding, the Red Crescent has consistently been at the forefront of the nation’s disaster response.
President Hamid lauded the Society’s tireless efforts in providing medical aid and basic necessities to those displaced by environmental calamities. He expressed his sincere hope that the BDRCS would maintain its momentum and continue to serve as a beacon of hope for humanity.
A Call for Integrity and Openness
While praising the Society’s achievements, the Head of State underscored the necessity of institutional integrity. He explicitly directed the BDRCS leadership to uphold the highest standards of transparency and accountability in every facet of their operations. In a world where humanitarian funding is increasingly scrutinised, the President noted that maintaining public trust is essential for the Society’s sustained success.
The following table outlines the core pillars of the BDRCS’s humanitarian mandate as discussed during the meeting:
| Focus Area | Primary Objectives and Activities |
| Disaster Response | Immediate relief, search and rescue, and emergency shelter provision. |
| Health Services | Operating hospitals, blood banks, and community-based health programmes. |
| Rehabilitation | Long-term support for rebuilding livelihoods post-disaster. |
| Disaster Preparedness | Training volunteers and establishing early-warning systems in coastal belts. |
| Youth & Volunteers | Mobilising the Youth Red Crescent for social service and first aid. |
The meeting concluded with President Hamid assuring the delegation of his administration’s unwavering support and cooperation in the future development of the Society. The session was also attended by senior secretaries and officials from the Bangabhaban, marking a significant moment of alignment between the state and its leading humanitarian organisation.