The
official opening of the 15th Session of the General Assembly
of the International Federation, the organization’s highest
decision-making body, saw all in attendance reminded of the
unique value and relevance of the work of the International
Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and of the importance of
this Assembly in ensuring that the Federation continues to meet
the needs of the world’s vulnerable.
In his welcoming address, the President of the Republic of Korea
National Red Cross, Mr Han Wan-Sang, reminded the 800 delegates
that the lives and dignities of countless people are still threatened
by armed conflicts and natural disasters.
“The Movement has been at the lead in alleviating the
hardship suffered by people caught up in these crises, both
man-made and natural,” said Mr Han.
“Let us rededicate ourselves to the ideals of humanitarianism
in a way that effectively responds to the challenges of the
present century.”
He also stressed the importance of disaster preparedness and
timely response. “Now is the time to take into consideration
the root causes of calamities,” he said, pointing to the
necessity of increased cooperation and coordination among humanitarian
actors.
This call for continued commitment and development was echoed
by the President of the International Federation, Juan Manuel
Suárez del Toro.
“Inequality continues to threaten and attack the lives
and dignity of thousands,” he noted. “May this General
Assembly be the beginning of a future of hope for all.”
He reiterated the Federation’s humanitarian commitment
to defeat the injustice of poverty and violence, to achieve
food security, to allow people access to acceptable levels of
health and education, to protect the environment and to achieve
gender equality, among others.
Finally, in a congratulatory address, the President of the Republic
of Korea, Mr Roh Moo-Hyun, thanked the Federation and National
Societies for their ongoing efforts to improve the lives of
those in need. He reiterated his belief in solidarity and noted
that high tech was not the solution to problems such as hunger,
disease, exclusion and environmental degradation.
“We all share the same hope – to overcome conflict,
to establish peace, and to ensure human dignity,” said
the President.
The ceremony was brought to a close with a breathtaking performance
of the traditional Korean Ogumu drum dance by the Kook Soo-Ho
Didim Dance Company.
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The
ceremony was brought to a close with a breathtaking performance
of the traditional Korean Ogumu drum dance by the Kook
Soo-Ho Didim Dance Company. (picture by Mr. Yang Seok
Kwon)
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In
his welcoming address, the President of the Republic of
Korea National Red Cross, Mr Han Wan-Sang, reminded the
800 delegates that the lives and dignities of countless
people are still threatened by armed conflicts and natural
disasters.
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