Firstly, I would like to express my Government’s profound appreciation to our co-hosts, for making this auspicious event possible, but especially for the sterling work of the ICRC in our region. South Africa’s relationship with the ICRC has grown in leaps and bounds over many decades since the establishment of its Permanent Delegation in Pretoria in 1978.

The manifestation of this special relationship found expression in the collaboration the South African Red Cross Society (SARCS) and the ICRC which started community programmes in under-privileged communities, no doubt, inspiring many health workers who as youth had contact with the Red Cross, to pursue a career in this noble profession.

Available: http://www.dirco.gov.za/docs/speeches/2015/land0818.htm