Palestine expresses gratitude to India for USD 2.5 million financial aid

New Delhi: Palestine expressed sincere gratitude to India on Tuesday for releasing the second installment of $2.5 million in financial aid to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This contribution fulfills India’s annual pledge of $5 million for the year 2024-2025.

A statement from the Palestinian Embassy acknowledged India's ongoing commitment to humanitarian assistance, emphasizing its role in supporting UNRWA’s vital work for Palestinian refugees. The Embassy also praised India’s continued pledge to provide humanitarian aid and medicines to the agency.

Abed Elrazeg Abu Jazer, Charge d'Affaires at the Palestinian Embassy, underscored the importance of the aid, noting that it is “a testament to India's unwavering support” for the agency's mission. He further highlighted that the contribution was crucial in countering Israeli efforts to undermine UNRWA’s activities in Palestinian territories.

In addition to the financial aid, Jazer reaffirmed the deep historical ties between India and Palestine. He expressed hope that India's continued support would help Palestinians in their pursuit of freedom, independence, and statehood. India's Representative Office to Palestine confirmed the release of the $2.5 million tranche on Monday. Over the years, India has provided $40 million for UNRWA's core programs, including education, healthcare, and social services for Palestinian refugees.

The Embassy of Palestine expressed its gratitude, emphasizing that India’s ongoing assistance strengthens UNRWA’s efforts to serve Palestinian refugees in the face of regional challenges. India has long supported a two-state solution for peace between Israel and Palestine and has consistently advocated for the establishment of a sovereign, independent Palestinian state.

With IANS inputs