June 4th, 2017 ― Doha: Qatar Red Crescent (QRCS) signed this morning a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Doha-based Organization of Islamic Cooperation Humanitarian Funds (OICHF), as a basis for strategic cooperation towards the common long-term humanitarian goals. QRCS Signs Strategic MoU with Humanitarian Funds June 4th, 2017 ― Doha: Qatar Red Crescent (QRCS) signed this morning a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Doha-based Organization of Islamic Cooperation Humanitarian Funds (OICHF), as a basis for strategic cooperation towards the common long-term humanitarian goals. The MoU was signed by H.E. Sheikh Dr. Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of OICHF, and Ali Hassan Al-Hammadi, Secretary-General of QRCS. The purpose of bilateral strategic cooperation is to have stronger regional and international presence, build capacity in shared fields of action, mobilize available resources, launch joint programmes and projects, play a deeper role in relevant humanitarian and development issues, and promote the best practices. Sheikh Abdulaziz Al Thani commended the partnership with QRCS. "Under its wise leadership, the State of Qatar has become a leading contributor to regional and international humanitarian operations. It has active charities and humanitarian organizations, notably QRCS. This is a positive step towards convergence, concerted efforts, and effective assistance of vulnerable and distressed people, particularly in Arab countries like Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and Libya". Mr. Al-Hammadi stated, "I would like to thank OICHF for this laudable initiative to build bridges and exchange experience, which will reflect positively on our humanitarian activities and maximize the benefit for the vulnerable in hot zones. This is in harmony with the ideals and missions of both organizations, at a time when blessings full the lives of the needy".   According to him, this agreement addresses the increasing humanitarian and developmental needs in the teeth of shrinking resources. "Humanitarian providers have to integrate and rationalize resources to meet the most stressing needs," he added. "These days, humanitarian issues and crises are too complicated to be dealt with individually. It is necessary to adopt collective approaches towards the growing challenges". Under the agreement, a coordination committee would be created to supervise the implementation of the goals stipulated in the document, including action plans, resource allocation, operations management, assessment, and reporting. The committee will comprise top officials from both parties. Leadership will be rotational on a semiannual basis. The first session will be chaired by OICHF.