President of Red Cross Society of China warns of unprecedented challenges for humanitarian work

Chen Zhu, president of Red Cross Society of China (RCSC), warned on Tuesday that "in the world of today, global financial crises, conflicts, natural disasters, climate change, terrorism and refugee crises are intertwined and have created unprecedented challenges for humanitarian work."

Speaking at a general debate of the 32nd International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, Chen noted that RCSC had recently responded in conjunction with international efforts to a number of disasters around the world such as in the Philippines after Typhoon Yolanda and in earthquake-struck Nepal.

It has provided support to national societies in countries such as Ethiopia, Uganda, Myanmar, DPRK and Kazakhstan, and instigated many community-based projects in rural and underdeveloped areas while delivering humanitarian material to people in need in Afghanistan, Russia and Ukraine.

"Under the dominant themes of peace and development, we realize that the root causes of poverty and conflict can only be eliminated through development and the global humanitarian demand can be met by the consolidation of the all-round cooperation," said Chen.

He mentioned the One Belt One Road Initiative of China would foster sustainable development and security in Asia and the world.

The 32nd International Conference opened in Geneva on Tuesday and will finish on Dec. 10.

The Conference is a unique global forum bringing together leaders from over 190 State Parties to the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Endit