Palestine thanked India on Tuesday for disbursing the second instalment of $2.5 million in financial aid to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This disbursement will effectively complete India's pledged annual commitment of $5 million during the 2024-2025 period.
The Palestinian Embassy issued a statement saying, "We extend our sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Government of India for releasing the second tranche of $2.5 million to UNRWA, fulfilling its annual contribution of $5 million for the year."
The embassy commended India's commitment to humanitarian support, stating: "We also welcome India's commitment to its pledge to continue donating humanitarian assistance and medicines to UNRWA, and to aid the agency in meeting its responsibilities toward the welfare of Palestinian refugees.
Charge d'affaires of the Embassy of Palestine, Abed Elrazeg Abu Jazer, underscored that this financial aid was a testament to India's "unwavering support" for the mandate of UNRWA, which has been in existence since 1949.
"This financial contribution is a critical step in countering Israeli attempts to undermine UNRWA and halt its activities in Palestinian territories," Jazer stated.
Elaborating on the historical bond between India and Palestine, he further said, "The Palestinian people are deeply grateful for India's support and eagerly wait for its continued support at both the political and material levels until they realize their aspirations for freedom, independence, and the establishment of their independent state."
India’s Representative Office to Palestine confirmed the release of the $2.5 million tranche on Monday. Over the years, India has contributed a total of $40 million toward UNRWA’s core programs, which include education, healthcare, relief, and social services for Palestinian refugees.
In addition to financial aid, India stands committed to providing humanitarian assistance and medicines to UNRWA, helping the agency carry out its responsibility towards the well-being of Palestinian refugees," the Representative Office added.
The Palestinian Embassy expressed optimism that such support would strengthen the efforts of UNRWA in assisting Palestinian refugees during the remaining regional challenges.
"The Indian contribution reaffirms its commitment to UNRWA's services and the Palestinian cause. We thank for such support that underlines India's consistent place as a strong ally with us in our war to gain independence and self-determination," the Embassy noted.
India has consistently provided aid and international humanitarian efforts, making it stand in absolute solidarity with the Palestinian people and their cause, furthered through all efforts with peace and stability in the region.
New Delhi has long advocated for a two-state solution, the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and viable State of Palestine within secure and recognized borders, which will coexist peacefully with Israel.
India has unequivocally condemned the October 7 terror attacks on Israel last year. It called for "the unconditional and immediate release of all hostages, ceasefire, the need for continued humanitarian assistance, and adherence to international humanitarian law."
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