The 11th Asia-Pacific (AP11) Regional Conference of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) takes place in Hanoi on November 21-23, 2023. (Photo: dangcongsan.vn)

The Hanoi Joint Statement adopted at the AP11 Conference marks an important milestone in the efforts of national associations and affirms the urgent need for cooperation, sharing, and action with the power of a unified movement to address humanitarian challenges.

Sharing lessons to strengthen cooperation in disaster response

The AP Conference is held every 4 years with the participation of all national associations in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East-North Africa region. The Conference gathered 350 delegates from more than 50 national associations, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, international organizations, and the United Nations.

Themed "Asia-Pacific prepared for disasters", the AP11 Conference took place in the context of the Asia-Pacific region regularly suffering more than other regions from climate change and natural disasters. Dozens of discussion panels at the conference gathered valuable experience, professional knowledge, and initiatives for humanitarian connectivity and cooperation in the region.

Bui Thi Hoa, President of the Vietnam Red Cross Society (Photo: dangcongsan.vn)

“The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and representatives of national associations and movements, appreciate the Vietnam Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Vietnam has fulfilled its tasks and has been a trustworthy member that can share its successes with other national associations, suggest issues for discussion, and reach consensus. The Conference's Joint Statement emphasizes the participation of the government, social forces, businesses, organizations, and individuals to generate resources for responding to natural disasters and disasters,” said Bui Thi Hoa, President of the Vietnam Red Cross Society.

The Asia-Pacific Red Cross and Red Crescent Youth Forum, an initiative of host Vietnam, has inspired and promoted the pioneering role, creativity, and readiness of the younger generation to respond to future natural disasters.

Vietnam, a country rich in cultural identity and the spirit of solidarity

The successful AP11 Conference conveyed Vietnam's compassion, humanity, national identity, and friendliness to the delegates.

"The Vietnam Red Cross Societies has made excellent preparation for the Conference. The hospitality of not only the Red Cross Societies but also the Vietnamese people is great. This is the first time I’ve visited Vietnam. Vietnam will be one of my favorite places to visit in the future," Fine Tuitupou, who represents the Cook Islands’ Red Cross Society. 

Kate Forbes, Chairman of the  IFRC Audit and Risk Commission, said, "Cultural performance is a great way to introduce your cultural identity. I was surprised and excited to see many female leaders in the Vietnam Red Cross Societies. The Vice President of the Vietnam Red Cross Societies is also a very active member of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies." 

The "Humanitarian Power" program held on the sidelines of the Conference also contributed to spreading Vietnam's tradition of kindness, humanity, and love.

25 years ago, the Vietnam Red Cross Society successfully hosted the AP6 Conference. The successful organization of the AP11 Conference affirms Vietnam's readiness to contribute to the international community’s effort in responding to climate change, protecting the environment, and providing international humanitarian relief.

The AP11 Conference conveyed the message that the challenges we are facing are not small, but acting together will generate more power to build an integrated and resilient Asia-Pacific region.