GRC bids farewell to Pakistan after 43 years of humanitarian service

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 16th Jun, 2026) The Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) and the German Red Cross (GRC) on Tuesday marked the conclusion of a 43-year humanitarian partnership at a closing and transition ceremony in Islamabad, celebrating decades of joint efforts in disaster response, health services, climate resilience, water and sanitation, anticipatory action and community development across Pakistan.

Addressing the ceremony, German Ambassador to Pakistan Ina Lepel said the longstanding collaboration between PRCS and GRC had provided life saving assistance to vulnerable communities and helped strengthen preparedness and resilience against growing climate related challenges.

She praised the commitment of staff and volunteers from both organisations in serving humanity.

PRCS Chairperson Farzhana Naek described the partnership as a cornerstone of humanitarian work in Pakistan, saying GRC’s support had significantly enhanced the society’s capacity in disaster management, climate action, health services and community resilience.

MS Naek expressed confidence that the strong ties between the two national societies would continue beyond the closure of the German Red Cross mission.

A delegation from the German Red Cross headquarters in Berlin, led by Marc-André Souvignier, attended the event along with senior PRCS officials, volunteers, former and current GRC staff and community representatives.

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Mr Souvignier termed the 43 year collaboration a symbol of trust, solidarity and shared humanitarian values, highlighting achievements in disaster response, climate action and anticipatory initiatives.

He paid tribute to former and current GRC personnel and voiced optimism about future cooperation between the two organisations.

German Red Cross Head of Office in Pakistan Asif Aman said the closure of the country office marked a transition rather than an end to cooperation, adding that both organisations remained committed to supporting vulnerable communities and reducing human suffering.

PRCS Secretary General Muhammad Abaidullah Khan highlighted the achievements of the partnership and thanked the German Red Cross for its decades long support in strengthening humanitarian services and community resilience nationwide.

Representatives from communities in Swat and Punjab shared testimonies about the positive impact of joint PRCS-GRC projects on local infrastructure, preparedness and resilience.

A cultural performance reflecting the traditions of Pakistan and Germany was also presented, while appreciation certificates were distributed among former and current GRC staff in recognition of their humanitarian contributions.