UAE: The ICRC Signs Headquarters Agreement with the UAE Government
Dubai, 06 July 2022 – The President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Peter Maurer and The UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation, H.E. Reem Al Hashemy, have signed a headquarters agreement in Abu Dhabi, also known as a host-country agreement, formalizing relations between the ICRC and the United Arab Emirates Government and establishing the organization’s legal status in the country.
“The UAE is an important humanitarian actor and a key partner for the ICRC. This headquarters agreement will help to strengthen our collaboration and we are grateful for the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation. The ICRC is proud to count the UAE within our donor support group and we are committed to further strengthen our partnership in supporting people affected by critical humanitarian issues”, said Mr. Maurer.
The headquarters agreement sets out a framework for relations between the ICRC and the authorities of the country concerned, enabling it to carry out its mandate. It also ensures that the ICRC enjoys the privileges and immunities necessary to carry out its activities in line with its mandate and customary working procedures.
"We cherish the distinguished relations and strengthened cooperation we have with the ICRC. The agreement to establish an office for the Committee in the UAE will contribute to achieving the desired goals in terms of relief work, reaching the needy and using modern technologies in this field, in light of the great challenges currently facing relief work in many regions of the world”, H.E. Al Hashemy said.
The ICRC is an independent, neutral organization ensuring humanitarian protection and assistance for victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence. It takes action in response to emergencies and at the same time promotes respect for international humanitarian law. Established in 1863, the ICRC is at the origin of the Geneva Conventions and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. The ICRC has been present in the UAE since December 2016.
For further information, please contact Jessica Moussan on jmoussan@icrc.org or +971504254091.
