On behalf of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), allow me to congratulate you on your appointment as president of the Red Crescent Society of the Islamic Republic of Iran. I am certain that your experience as a senior manager, the extensive capacities of your National Society in the health sector and the commitment of your volunteers and staff will prove to be valuable resources for your country in such challenging times.

We at the ICRC, in close coordination with the IFRC, will do our utmost to support you during the COVID-19 crisis and work to strengthen the bonds that tie us as components of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Our thoughts go out to those who have lost loved ones to the disease, particularly the families of medical personnel and relief workers.

Finally, let me take this opportunity to express my best wishes to you and all your colleagues for the Iranian New Year. May it bring health and prosperity.