VISIT OF THE NORWEGIAN RED CROSS DELEGATION TO MDA

On 1st of November 2007, the Norwegian Red Cross delegation was hosted at Magen David Adom HQ in Tel Aviv by the representatives from the Red Cross Cooperation Coordination office of MDA.
The members of the delegation -  International Department Director - Mr. Arnolv Torbjensen, Welfare Coordinator -  Mrs. Helen Wikan and Red Cross Coordinator to Ramallah - Mr. Marcus Diaz - received an overview of MDA's activities as Israel's National Emergency and Blood Bank Services,  and were deeply impressed by the MDA's humanitarian role within the country and abroad, which is evident by MDA's efforts for the well-being of Darfur refugees, supplying food for the people in shelters during the Second Lebanon War and more.
During the meeting, MDA aspiration to include within its activities a new program for Psychological Support for workers and volunteers of the organization was raised. The delegation members were familiar with the MDA new initiative, and greeted it with enthusiasm. In this occasion, Mr. Torbjensen has mentioned that the Norwegian RC is positively considering supporting this important program, given the trauma events the MDA workers and volunteers are faced with, during their daily and intensive work.
The Norwegian RC has a most impressive experience in providing yet another kind of course - BTC (Basic Training Course), and  it was agreed that the Norwegian RC will share with MDA  its' considerable experience in providing such courses.
During the discussions, Mr. Torbjensen pointed out the availability of the International Federation's support and services, following the admission of MDA as a full member in the Red Cross Movement. The meeting was concluded in a positive atmosphere, with prospects of future cooperation.