Muslim World League and Red Cross chiefs meet to discuss humanitarian crisis

Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, the secretary-general of the Muslim World League and chair of the Organization of Muslim Scholars, visited the humanitarian vessel Ocean Viking this week, where he met the secretary-general of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Jagan Chapagain, and was briefed on the work of the vessel and its crew.

The president of the Italian Red Cross, Rosario Valastro, was also present at the meeting, which took place off coast of Sicily, a place that officials said “has witnessed the greatest migration-related humanitarian suffering.”

Al-Issa commended the vessel’s crew for their noble, life-saving humanitarian work, including the provision of food, medicine and healthcare to migrants stranded at sea, which he said is carried out in cooperation with the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

Chapagain expressed appreciation for the significant support provided by MWL, an important strategic partner to his organization, which he said is vital if its urgent mission and humanitarian efforts are to continue.

“The MWL’s contribution to the projects has had a great impact on the lives of displaced people, which is a reflection of the generous support provided by MWL to this humanitarian effort and its partnership. This is truly appreciated by everyone,” Chapagain said.

“Through the cooperation of humanitarian organizations, we are contributing to saving lives and preserving human dignity at sea. This vessel is a symbol of solidarity and humanity, as it seeks to provide humanitarian assistance and protection to migrants and displaced people.”

The MWL has announced that an agreement signed with IFRC last year with the aim of “supporting migrants, displaced people and the victims of conflicts” is to be renewed.

Officials said it has already helped save the lives of more than 2,744 displaced people, mostly in the Mediterranean, which is considered the most dangerous route taken by migrants. It provides healthcare and other assistance, including more than 20,000 meals for people after they reach safety.

Al-Issa also stressed the urgent need to help facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza as a matter of priority for the international community.