Oslo, Norway — The Chairperson of the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS), Mrs. Farzhana Naek, met with Pakistan’s Ambassador to Norway, Mrs. Sadia Altaf Qazi, in Oslo. They discussed humanitarian initiatives and explored ways to strengthen relief efforts through Pakistani diaspora support.
During the meeting, Mrs. Naek briefed the Ambassador on PRCS’s auxiliary role to the Government of Pakistan. She reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities, especially after the devastating floods that recently affected millions across the country. She emphasized that global humanitarian funding continues to decline. In this context, Pakistani diaspora support could prove vital in extending relief and recovery assistance to affected populations.
Highlighting PRCS’s extensive presence, Mrs. Naek noted that the society operates seven provincial branches and 62 district branches. It also has a dedicated network of 1.7 million volunteers. This nationwide network allows PRCS to respond swiftly to emergencies and carry out long-term recovery initiatives. She stressed that engaging the Pakistani community in Norway would provide immediate relief to flood-affected families. It would also reinforce sustainable development and resilience-building projects across Pakistan.
Ambassador Mrs. Sadia Altaf Qazi praised PRCS for its tireless efforts in humanitarian response and disaster management. She acknowledged the organization’s role in building resilience and supporting vulnerable populations during emergencies. The Ambassador also discussed potential collaborations with Norwegian-based organizations. She underlined that Pakistani diaspora support could open new funding opportunities for PRCS’s projects.
Both sides agreed that mobilizing the Pakistani community abroad would create an important bridge. It would connect humanitarian needs in Pakistan with support networks overseas. By combining local expertise with international contributions, PRCS aims to strengthen its humanitarian impact and provide critical assistance to those in need.
In recent years, Pakistan has faced some of the worst natural disasters in its history. These include floods that displaced millions, destroyed farmland, and damaged essential infrastructure. PRCS has consistently been on the frontlines during such crises. It has provided medical aid, shelter, food, and clean water to those most affected. This demonstrates its crucial role in national disaster response.
