Statement by H. E. Mr. Margus Kolga, Permanent Representative of Estonia to the Ad Hoc Committee of the General Assembly for the Announcement of Voluntary Contributions to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East

04.12.2012

Mr. Chairman,

Estonia values highly the work of UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). We find it extremely important that UNRWA constantly seeks solutions to operate more efficiently. Therefore I have the pleasure to announce that Estonia continues to support UNRWA and Estonian Government has decided to make an un-earmarked contribution of 50 000 EUR for the UNRWA programmes in the year 2013.

UNRWA provides assistance, protection and advocacy for some 5 million refugees in the Middle East. The humanitarian relief of the people of Palestine is a priority. For a durable solution, however, direct negotiations between Israel and Palestine with genuine willingness from both sides to establish two states living side by side in peace and security, should begin.

Estonia continues to assist Palestine people through multilateral or bilateral development cooperation projects.