Statement of Latvia UNRWA Pledging Conference
June 2, 2023
DPR of Latvia, Mr. Ivars Liepnieks
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Latvia aligns with the statement made by the European Union.
Excellencies, dear colleagues,
Let me start by thanking the organizers of UNRWA’s pledging conference. I would also like to extend Latvia’s appreciation to Commissioner – General Philippe Lazarini for his leadership and dedication to supporting Palestinian refugees.
We truly appreciate UNRWA’s efforts, especially in the challenging political and financial environment of today. UNRWA’s role far exceeds humanitarian assistance, it contributes to peace and stability in the wider region.
We are concerned about the worsening financial situation of UNRWA. It is critical to ensure that the agency is able to provide essential services to Palestinian refugees, especially education, health care and social care in accordance with its mandate.
Latvia will continue its support to UNRWA’s work. Since 2020, Latvia has taken a long-term commitment for an annual contribution to UNRWA’s budget, which the President of Latvia reaffirmed during his visit to Ramallah in November 2022. We are currently considering the increase of our contribution in the future.
We were also glad to host UNRWA’s Senior Manager for Outreach in Europe last week. It was an excellent opportunity to discuss the challenges faced by Palestinian refugees and the potential for expanding our cooperation.
Latvia is committed to regional peace and security. Since May 2022, Latvia is a contributing member to the mission of the UN Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) in Jerusalem.
Finally, I would like to reiterate our support to UNRWA’s work and express our hope that this event will pave the way for reliable and predictable funding that will ensure the ability of UNRWA to continue its crucial regional role and essential services to the most vulnerable Palestinian refugees in a sustainable and stable manner.
Thank you!