UAE will continue to send aid to Palestinians

Abu Dhabi: The UAE will continue delivering emergency aid to the distressed Palestinian people in Gaza in coordination with regional and international aid agencies, said Shaikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the UAE Red Crescent Authority (RCA) and Chairman of the Foreign Aid Coordination Office.

"The UAE has been at the forefront of countries working tirelessly to ameliorate the suffering of the Palestinian people. This effort will continue unabated as directed by UAE leaders," Shaikh Hamdan said.

Speaking to delegates of the donor agencies and countries conference which concluded yesterday in Abu Dhabi, Shaikh Hamdan said the UAE was duty bound to help its Palestinian brethren as they face the worst humanitarian conditions; the inhumane blockade, destruction of lives and property, and appalling living conditions.

Shaikh Hamdan expressed appreciation to the tremendous response of people in the UAE, both UAE nationals and resident expatriates, who were able to raise Dh600 million and pledged to build 1300 houses and renovate schools, hospitals and mosques destroyed by the Israeli troops.

Shaikh Hamdan told the delegates that he had a telephone conversation with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who briefed him on the latest developments on the ground as well as the efforts being made to bring about a ceasefire.

During the meeting, Shaikh Hamdan expressed his deep concern for the humanitarian conditions in Gaza.

"What is happening now in Gaza is extremely painful. It doesn't serve the best interest of our Palestinian brethren. Therefore, it is imperative for all Palestinians to unify their ranks as they face this terrible tragedy", he said.