Statement Ministry for Foreign Affairs 03 June 2009
Gunilla Carlsson, Minister for International Development Cooperation

Statement by Jakob Kellenberger, President of the ICRC and Gunilla Carlsson, Minister for Development Cooperation

On Wednesday the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross visit Sweden an met Gunilla Carlsson, Minister for Development Cooperation. After the meeting they together stated:

The international community is currently facing economic, food, energy and climate crises, all of which have a tremendous impact on many peoples lives, especially on the poorest and most vulnerable. These crises have broadened and deepened the extent of hunger and vulnerability already present in many parts of the world, severely affecting peoples health and their lives. In addition to the increased frequency of natural disasters, armed conflicts continue to kill, injure and displace large numbers of people around the world, causing one humanitarian crisis after another.

Huge humanitarian challenges lie ahead and greater efforts are needed in order to help an increasing number of vulnerable people. It is in times like these that the need for well-prepared and professional organisations such as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is the greatest. The ICRC is working tirelessly, with neutrality and independence, to protect and assist the victims of armed conflicts through its network of 12,000 staff in some 80 countries."

"Sweden continues to be one of the largest donors to ICRC and I am committed to continuing this strong support, both politically and financially", said Gunilla Carlsson.

"The global economic crisis, climate-induced natural disasters and armed violence induce increasing humanitarian needs, placing ever greater demands on the international humanitarian community. The Swedish government and the ICRC are committed to work for an effective and reliable humanitarian response for the challenges ahead." said Jakob Kellenberger and Gunilla Carlsson.