In 2002, Chinacontinued its active participation in the International Red Cross movement.

From 7-8 February, the Steering Committee of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Society held its 11thspecial session in Geneva. Wang Lizhong, vice permanent chairman of the Chinese Red Cross Society headed the Chinese delegation to the session. The session mapped out the course of action and future development plan of the newly elected Steering Committee.

From 16-21 June and from 2-6 September, the East Asiadelegation of the International Committee of the Red Cross conducted separate training courses in humanitarian laws for the servicemen in Jiangsuprovince and Xi'an.

From 20-24 August, Mr. Simon, director of the Asia-Pacific division of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Society made a study trip to the Sichuan Red Cross Society.

From 24-28 November, the Sixth regional session for Asiaand the Pacific of the International Federation was held in Manila, Philippines. Mr. Wang Lizhong, vice permanent chairman of the Chinese Red Cross Society was present with delegation. The theme topic of the session was "to unite for the dignity of mankind", and the discussion centered on issues including "sanitation, population migration and disaster management". And the session finally adopted the Manila Action Plan.

From 26-29 November, Kellenberger, president of the International Committee of the Red Cross paid a visit to China at the invitation of the Chinese Red cross Society. He was successively received by Jiang Zemin, the Chinese president and the honorary chairman of the Chinese Red Cross Society, Peng Peiyun, vice chairperson of the National People's Congress Standing Committee and chairman of the Chinese Red Cross Society, Qiao Zonghui, leading member of the Chinese foreign ministry and responsible persons of the General political department of the PLA. Both sides exchanged views on the current international situation, advocacy of humanitarian laws and bilateral cooperation.