Caracas, July 06 (QNA) - Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) has dispatched humanitarian aid shipments and a field medical and relief delegation to Venezuela to provide emergency relief following the devastating earthquakes, as part of the Qatari airlift ordered by HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.

HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Salman bin Nabit Al Khulaifi, described that initiative as a manifestation of Qatar’s leading humanitarian role and ongoing commitment to backing other countries in any part of the world.

"The arrival of this fully integrated medical and relief convoy reflects the strong bilateral relations and humanitarian ties between Qatar and Venezuela," His Excellency said. "The Embassy will be there to offer every possible form of support, to help the delegation successfully achieve the noble humanitarian goals of its mission".

QRCS's delegation comprises a select group of specialists, divided into three main groups that work together to ensure an optimal humanitarian response.

The relief group is responsible for needs assessment and emergency aid distribution. Comprising consultants and surgeons from Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and QRCS, the medical group perform medical examinations, consultations, and surgeries for patients and affected people.

There is a psychosocial support (PSS) group, which implements rehabilitation programs and offers mental health support for the affected communities, to enhance their resilience.

In preparation for the launch of humanitarian operations, representatives of QRCS, Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), and the Venezuelan Red Cross held a coordination meeting to assess the humanitarian situation, identify priorities, and review mechanisms of relief coordination, especially in the health sector.

Two humanitarian aid shipments from QRCS were delivered by the Qatari relief aircraft, containing 16 tons of medical supplies and 24 tons of hygiene items.

HE Permanent Ambassador of Venezuela to UNESCO, Ernesto Villegas Poljak, expressed his government's deep gratitude and appreciation to the Qatari government and humanitarian organizations for such a noble humanitarian intervention.

Relief professionals from QRCS and the Venezuelan Red Cross visited the earthquake-affected zones to gather firsthand information about the damage and response operations.

According to feedback from the victims, the key needs at makeshift shelters include shelter supplies, drinking water, hygiene kits, and PSS services, particularly for children.

Then, a field assessment meeting was held to share data and specify humanitarian priorities.

They also visited the field hospital set up by the Venezuelan Red Cross and several National Societies.

At the conclusion of the visit, the experts from both sides agreed to keep working closely together to ensure rapid response to the existing humanitarian needs and intensify relief and medical assistance for earthquake-affected people. (QNA)