LONDON: Japan and China have jointly allocated a sum of $2 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).
Japan’s contribution of $1 million, provided on Friday, is intended to aid the restoration of health services in the aftermath of an Israeli Security Forces operation in the Jenin refugee camp. The primary healthcare facility in the camp, operated by UNRWA, suffered significant damage during the operation that conducted in July and remains non-operational.
The allocated funds will empower UNRWA to establish and manage a temporary health center within and around the camp, focusing on the needs of refugees. This includes provisions for mental health and psychological support, recognizing the critical humanitarian requirements in the area.
Japan’s Ambassador to Palestine, Nakashima Yoichi, described the emergency response as a display of Japan’s support for the Palestinian refugees in Jenin camp who urgently require sanitation, health services, and assistance with unexploded ordnance. He conveyed Japan’s solidarity with those impacted by the recent security operation, expressing hopes for a swift recovery.
Simultaneously, China also stepped forward with a $1 million donation to UNRWA on Wednesday. The aid will specifically benefit 5,300 Palestinian refugee children across five schools within the Gaza Strip.
Zeng Jixin, China’s Ambassador to Palestine, underlined the indispensable role that UNRWA has played over the past seven decades in alleviating the humanitarian challenges faced by Palestinian refugees. He commended UNRWA’s efforts and indicated that China’s contribution reflects its commitment to the agency’s vital mandate.
Zeng stated, “China fully recognizes and highly commends the work of UNRWA and has been providing assistance within our capacity to support UNRWA in fulfilling its mandate.” He highlighted that this contribution aligns with President Xi Jinping’s proposal for a comprehensive solution to the Palestinian question.
China remains committed to collaborating with the global community to advance the resolution of the Palestinian question and foster lasting peace, universal security, and shared prosperity in the Middle East.
