Safadi, UNRWA's Lazzarini talk mobilising agency support

AMMAN — Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi on Thursday stressed the importance of effective action to mobilise political and financial support for UNRWA, according to a ministry statement.

During a meeting with UNRWA Commissioner General Philippe Lazzarini, Safadi discussed the necessary future steps towards supporting UNRWA and enabling it to continue offering vital services to Palestinian refugees in accordance with its UN mandate, as part of joint work and coordination with the agency, as well as the international and regional partners.

Safadi renewed rejection of any modification to the agency's mandate and powers, noting that offering these services is an “exclusive responsibility” for the agency as per its UN mandate, and stressing that the agency’s powers and authorities are “non-delegable”.

Both sides reviewed the UNRWA's plans and the pressing challenges facing the agency, agreeing to maintain coordination and consultation, especially that the 77th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 77) is approaching; scheduled to be held next September.