India’s Continued Support: Second tranche of $2.5 million for Palestinian refugees

India has released the second tranche of USD 2.5 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The Indian contribution was handed over by India’s Chargee d’Affaires Mrs Elizabeth Rodrigues in Ramallah.

With this tranche, India has fulfilled its annual contribution of USD 5 million for the year 2023-24 to support the UN agency’s core programmes and services. This includes healthcare, education, relief and social services provided to the Palestinian refugees.

In November India took a substantial step in supporting peace amid the Israel-Hamas conflict by allocating US$2.5 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This contribution is part of India’s yearly commitment of US$5 million for the fiscal year 2023-24, underscoring its dedication to humanitarian causes.

In a ceremony at UNRWA’s West Bank Field Office in Jerusalem, Renu Yadav, India’s Representative to the State of Palestine, handed over the donation to Karim Amer, Director of Partnerships at UNRWA. This financial aid aims to bolster UNRWA’s essential programs, including education, healthcare, relief, and social services for Palestinian refugees.

During the ceremony, India’s Representative emphasized the government’s unwavering support for UNRWA’s activities in the region, reinforcing India’s consistent stance on de-escalation in the Gaza Strip and the timely delivery of humanitarian aid.

In an informal meeting at the UN General Assembly on Monday (Nov 20), Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, India’s Permanent Representative, reiterated the nation’s clear and consistent message. India welcomes international efforts dedicated to de-escalating the conflict and ensuring urgent humanitarian assistance reaches the people of Palestine.

Expressing gratitude on behalf of UNRWA, Karim Amer acknowledged India’s steadfast support. This financial commitment not only reinforces UNRWA’s capacity to address the immediate needs of Palestinian refugees but also signifies India’s strategic role in global efforts to alleviate the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Israel-Hamas conflict. The contribution stands as a testament to India’s commitment to stability and peace in the region.