Abu Dhabi
Dr Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, met with Kelly Clements, UNHCR Deputy High Commissioner, to discuss the situation of displaced persons and refugees worldwide, and the international efforts being made to ensure their humanitarian needs are met.
Dr Gargash praised the role the UNHCR and other UN organisations play in alleviating the suffering of displaced people and refugees all around the world. Speaking about the role of the UAE, the minister said that since its establishment, the UAE has spared no effort in supporting humanitarian efforts for refugees and that it has cooperated and built partnerships with many relevant organisations, and looks forward to further cooperation and coordination efforts with them.
The UAE is one of the biggest humanitarian contributors in the world, having provided nearly $2.3 billion (Dh8.4 billion) between 2011-2016 in the aid of refugees. During the same period, the UAE also provided $83.5 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). In addition, the UAE has so far provided over $800 million to help with the Syrian crisis.
The UN official praised the UAE’s humanitarian efforts in supporting displaced people and refugees worldwide, especially Syrian refugees in neighbouring countries. She also praised the distinguished relations between the UAE and the UNHCR, and called for more joint programmes and projects.
