H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in the Western Region and Chairman of the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC), has stressed the UAE's commitment under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to sustain its global humanitarian mission and move forward in the promotion of initiatives ??that alleviate suffering as one of the most important state donors of humanitarian aid in the world.

He said in a statement on the occasion of World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, which falls on the 8th May each year that "The UAE humanitarian and development achievements are attributed to its efforts in improving human development opportunities in developing countries and the initiatives and assistance from Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces."

Sheikh Hamdan said, "It is no coincidence that UAE maintains for the third year in a row its position among the largest international donors in the field of international development assistance compared to its gross national income to become at the forefront of the ten most donor states in the world. He added that the UAE was ranked second in the list of the donor countries during the year 2015 as announced recently by The OECD Development Assistance Committee."

He referred to the developments of the current humanitarian situation in a number of countries in the region caused by the escalation of conflicts and their repercussions on the civilian population, innocent women and children.

Sheikh Hamdan called for effective cooperation and coordination with the International Red Cross.

Source :WAM