Minister Ashkenazi visits MDA National Operations Center
Minister of Foreign Affairs MK Ashkenazi on a visits to MDA National Operations Center: "MDA is always at the forefront of any crisis and I am calm that we have you at the forefront"
Foreign Minister, MK Gabi Ashkenazi (Blue and White) visited MDA’s National Operations Center in Kiryat Ono last Thursday. MK Ashkenazi was led by MDA Director General Eli Bin and other members of the senior management. During his visit, he was treated to a comprehensive overview of MDA’s activities as Israel’s National Emergency Medical and Blood Services Organization at the forefront of the coronavirus pandemic in Israel, and met with volunteers and employees of the organization.
During his visit, MK Ashkenazi received a full report of MDA’s routine and emergency activities and the response the organization has provided to the coronavirus crisis. Since the outbreak of the coronavirus in Israel, MDA has sampled over 3.1 million people at the Drive and Test complexes, private homes, educational institutions and in nursing homes. MK Ashkenazi also heard about MDA’s Blood Services which has embarked on obtaining convalescent plasma donations for those in moderate and severe condition. Additionally, he was told about the activities of MDA’s Friend’s Societies around the world who work in conjunction with the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs as well as other rescue organizations.
In addition, Minister Ashkenazi was interested to hear about MDA’s “MDA in the Community” project which is expected to reduce emergency room traffic by 30%, as well as the unique vehicles belonging to the organization, and MDA’s lifesaving technologies.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, MK Gabi Ashkenazi: "MDA has made a revolution. This is the fastest growing organization in Israel and is a key player in dealing with the Corona crisis. MDA is always on the front lines and we appreciate that. The connection between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the organization is successful and I was happy to meet an organization that makes saving lives a priority. The people of Israel are not sufficiently aware of the contribution and role that MDA is taking on. On behalf of the government and the public, I express my appreciation and am happy to see the organization develop and grow. This is a country that will continue to go through crises - and I am calm that we have MDA at the forefront".
MDA Director General Eli Bin: "We appreciate Minister Ashkenazi's visit and thank him for devoting his time to getting to know the organization that is at the forefront of the national fight against the coronavirus. MDA has many overlapping interests with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which are part of MDA’s member status to the IFRC. The good cooperation will continue and ultimately lead to the health of the citizens of Israel".
