ARCS and the Norwegian Red Cross Discuss Expanding Health Services

Monday, June 29, 2026

Sheikh-ul-Hadith Shahabuddin Delawar, General President of the ARCS, accompanied by Vice President Hafiz Azizur Rahman, met with Mr. Iftikhar Ali, Head of the Norwegian Red Cross Delegation for Afghanistan, at the ARCS Central Headquarters to discuss the expansion of health services and the strengthening of joint humanitarian cooperation.

During the meeting, Mr. Delawar described the Norwegian Red Cross's continued support to the health sector as highly effective. He stated that the ARCS currently provides treatment for nearly 1,500 patients at mental health care and treatment centers across several provinces of the country, while also delivering health services to a number of other patients in their homes.

He added that the ARCS strives to provide treatment for up to 2,000 patients with congenital heart defects each year through its Cardiac Hospital. He also requested the continued support of the Norwegian Red Cross in strengthening the treatment of patients with mental health disorders and congenital heart defects, as well as other health and humanitarian programs.

The Head of the Norwegian Red Cross Delegation for Afghanistan commended the ARCS for its healthcare activities and stated that the Norwegian Red Cross would continue supporting the Society's health programs. He added that efforts would also be made to further expand cooperation in the treatment of mental health disorders and congenital heart defects.

He also pledged to support the provision of essential medicines to the ARCS health centers, implement specialized training programs for the medical staff of the Cardiac Hospital, and assured the ARCS of the Norwegian Red Cross's continued commitment to providing every possible support to further strengthen healthcare services.