Rome, May 25 – Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani met with Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa at the Farnesina to discuss the latest developments in the region. During the meeting, Tajani announced that Italy will resume its financial support to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).
This decision marks a significant step towards strengthening the longstanding relationship between Italy and Palestine. The Italian government had suspended its funding to UNRWA in 2018, citing concerns over the agency’s dirigenza and accountability. However, after careful consideration and discussions with the Palestinian authorities, Tajani announced that Italy will contribute 1 million euros to UNRWA’s budget for the year 2021.
In his statement, Tajani emphasized the importance of supporting UNRWA’s vital work in providing essential services to Palestinian refugees, especially in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region. He also reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to finding a sustainable solution to the Palestinian refugee issue, in line with the two-state solution.
The resumption of Italian funding to UNRWA is a testament to the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between Italy and Palestine. It also demonstrates Italy’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people and their right to self-determination.
Prime Minister Mustafa expressed his gratitude for Italy’s decision, stating that it will have a significant impact on the lives of Palestinian refugees. He also commended Italy’s continuous efforts towards achieving a just and lasting peace in the Middle East.
UNRWA, established in 1949, provides essential services such as education, healthcare, and social services to over 5 million Palestinian refugees in the occupied territories, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. The agency has been facing severe financial challenges in recent years, which have had a direct impact on the quality of services provided to refugees.
The Italian government’s decision to resume funding to UNRWA is a much-needed boost for the agency and the Palestinian people. It will help alleviate the suffering of Palestinian refugees and contribute to the stability and development of the region.
Italy’s support for UNRWA is not only a humanitarian gesture but also a strategic move towards promoting peace and stability in the Middle East. By investing in the well-being and education of Palestinian refugees, Italy is investing in a better future for the region.
The resumption of funding to UNRWA also sends a strong message to the international community about the importance of upholding international law and supporting multilateral institutions. It is a clear indication of Italy’s commitment to promoting a rules-based international order and finding a just and lasting solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.
In conclusion, Italy’s decision to resume funding to UNRWA is a significant step towards strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Italy and Palestine. It also reflects Italy’s commitment to promoting peace, stability, and development in the Middle East. As Prime Minister Mustafa stated, this is a positive and encouraging development that will have a lasting impact on the lives of Palestinian refugees.