UNRWA
Portugal has pledged to provide 10 million euros (equivalent to $10.89 million) to the UN Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA, aiming to offer vital assistance including food, medicine, and humanitarian aid to Palestinians, according to a report by Reuters.
The announcement of this substantial contribution came from acting Cabinet Affairs Minister Mariana Vieira da Silva after a cabinet meeting. A Foreign Ministry official emphasized that this amount constitutes new additional aid, not previously allocated in the state budget for 2024.
Caretaker Prime Minister Antonio Costa had earlier expressed his intention to inform UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who shares Portuguese nationality and has consistently advocated for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, about Portugal’s generous contribution of 10 million euros.
Costa addressed reporters ahead of a European Council meeting in Brussels, stressing the need for condemnation of the October 7th attack on Israel while also highlighting the importance of denouncing the manner in which Israel is currently exercising its right to defense.
He emphasized the necessity for unanimity in this condemnation, indicating a collective stance against both the attack and the subsequent actions taken.
Portugal’s commitment to supporting UNRWA’s efforts underscores its dedication to addressing the urgent humanitarian needs of Palestinians, particularly in light of ongoing conflicts and crises in the region.
By allocating significant funds outside of the state budget, Portugal demonstrates its willingness to take proactive steps to alleviate suffering and promote stability in the Palestinian territories.
The announcement of this substantial aid package reaffirms Portugal’s commitment to humanitarian principles and its solidarity with the Palestinian people in their quest for dignity, security, and peace.
Through this contribution, Portugal aims to contribute meaningfully to international efforts to address the pressing humanitarian challenges faced by Palestinians, while also advocating for a just and lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
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