Dhaka: Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen announced on Wednesday that China has consistently provided support to Bangladesh during times of disaster and humanitarian crises.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Bangladesh has donated USD 100,000 to the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) to assist with the ongoing emergency response for communities affected by recent floods and landslides across the country. This humanitarian contribution was officially handed over by Ambassador Yao at a ceremony held at the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society National Headquarters in Dhaka, where it was received on behalf of BDRCS by its Chairman, Barrister Md Abdus Salam.
During the ceremony, Ambassador Yao highlighted the severe impact of recent heavy rains in Bangladesh, which have resulted in significant flooding, loss of lives, displacement of millions, and extensive damage to farmland and infrastructure. “The Chinese people deeply sympathize with the people of Bangladesh during this difficult time,” he stated, while emphasizing that the USD 100,000 contribution represents the sincere concern and solidarity of the Chinese Government and people with Bangladesh.
Ambassador Yao also noted China’s ongoing support for Bangladesh’s disaster preparedness, including annual training programs and the provision of flood response equipment. He mentioned that equipment donated by China last year is currently being used effectively in the ongoing flood response. Furthermore, he reaffirmed China’s commitment to continuing humanitarian assistance and providing training for BDRCS volunteers as needed.
BDRCS Chairman Barrister Abdus Salam expressed profound gratitude to the government and people of China, as well as the Red Cross Society of China, for their continued humanitarian support. “We sincerely thank the Government and people of China for standing beside the people of Bangladesh during this difficult time,” he said, noting that the support will enable the expansion of emergency response efforts, such as distributing emergency food, safe drinking water, temporary shelters, hygiene kits, and medical services.
Highlighting the longstanding friendship between Bangladesh and China, Salam mentioned the foundation of bilateral relations established by late President Ziaur Rahman and strengthened by former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. He expressed confidence that following the recent visit of the Prime Minister to China, bilateral cooperation in humanitarian, economic, and development sectors will continue to strengthen.
During the event, BDRCS presented an overview of its emergency response activities up to 21 July, revealing that BDT 3.39 million had been released for emergency operations. The organization has distributed over 2,500 food packages, evacuated and rescued more than 22,000 people, provided medical assistance to over 2,000 individuals, distributed over 37,000 liters of safe drinking water, mobilized 12 Red Crescent Units, and deployed over 3,500 volunteers to support the emergency response.
The programme was attended by key figures, including Professor Dr. Md. Rafiqul Kabir, Vice Chairman of BDRCS; Dr. Abu Md. Mofakhkharul Islam Rana, Treasurer; Dr. Kabir Md. Ashraf Alam, ndc, Secretary General of BDRCS; senior officials from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC); officials from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China; representatives of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement; and other guests.