DUSHANBE, June 11, 2012, Asia-Plus  -- Zafar Muhabbatov, head of Tajikistan’s Red Crescent Society (RCS) and his Afghan counterpart Naim Dindar signed an agreement on friendly cooperation in Kabul, Afghanistan at the end of last week.

An official source at Tajikistan’s RCS sys that under the signed agreement the sides will implement joint projects, exchange information and experience and provide mutual assistance with delivery of humanitarian cargo.

Tajikistan’s Red Crescent Society (RCS) is one of the oldest humanitarian organizations in the country and is providing assistance to people in need since 1927.  Currently, RCS implements more than 20 projects in the fields of health, disaster management and organizational development with the financial support of IFRC, ICRC and European countries RCs.

The Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) is the Afghan affiliate of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.  The Society has existed for over 70 years although with limited structure due to the prevailing conditions which have affected the country at large for over 20 years.  The ARCS was founded in April 1934.  It traces its origins to the Naderia Orphanage, with the purpose of helping orphans and those in need.  In October 1951, the society adopted its constitution, which articulated democratic provisions for membership, elections at central, provincial and local branches, and managing board.