Deputy Foreign Minister Dang Hoang Giang receives Acting Director of UNRWA

Deputy Foreign Minister Dang Hoang Giang (right) and Acting Director of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) Christian Saunders. (Photo: Bao Chi)

During the meeting, Acting Director Christian Saunders thanked Vietnam for its political support and practical contributions to UNRWA’s emergency relief operations. He highly appreciated Vietnam’s consistent and responsible position on the question of Palestine, as well as its continued efforts to support the people of the Gaza Strip.

The Acting Director briefed the Deputy Foreign Minister on UNRWA’s operations under extremely challenging conditions, noting that the Agency continues to maintain around 11,000 staff members in Gaza to provide humanitarian assistance, education, healthcare, clean water, and sanitation services.

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He also highlighted the worsening situation in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, including the displacement of civilians, the closure of schools and healthcare facilities, as well as growing restrictions on UNRWA’s activities. He stressed the urgent need to sustain international attention and support for the Palestinian people.

Deputy Foreign Minister Dang Hoang Giang reaffirmed Vietnam’s consistent support for the role and activities of UNRWA, while expressing appreciation for the Agency’s efforts to maintain humanitarian, educational, and healthcare services for the Palestinian people amid increasingly complex circumstances.

The Deputy Minister extended his deepest condolences over the recent losses suffered by UNRWA personnel and reaffirmed that Vietnam will continue to advocate for ensuring the necessary conditions for the Agency to fully carry out its United Nations-mandated responsibilities.

He noted that Vietnam has consistently sought practical ways to support the Palestinian people and stands ready to participate in humanitarian relief, recovery, and reconstruction efforts in the Gaza Strip when conditions allow.

Vietnam is prepared to contribute in areas where it has expertise, including construction, engineering, healthcare, education, and post-conflict recovery. The Deputy Minister also expressed hope that UNRWA would continue sharing information and providing guidance on the most pressing needs on the ground, as well as identifying areas where Vietnam could make meaningful contributions.

Both sides agreed to maintain close communication and coordination in the period ahead.

Deputy Foreign Minister Dang Hoang Giang emphasized that all initiatives and mechanisms supporting the Palestinian people should complement United Nations efforts, reinforce the central role of the UN system, and ensure that assistance reaches those most in need.

For his part, Acting Director Christian Saunders welcomed Vietnam’s goodwill and potential contributions, particularly in technical cooperation, construction, healthcare, and education. He also expressed hope that Vietnam would continue to raise its voice at international forums, helping advance solutions to improve the humanitarian situation and facilitate the recovery and reconstruction of the Gaza Strip in the coming period.

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