Agencies-Gaza post
Nearly 300 Palestine refugee students from four UNRWA schools in Khan Younis marked “Hand in Hand Solidarity Event with Japan” on 21 March 2022 celebrating the eleventh anniversary of the numerous decisive earthquake ever documented to strike Japan.
The occurrence was carried out at the Khan Younis Training Centre (KYTC) in southern Gaza and was followed by the Director of UNRWA Affairs in Gaza, Mr. Thomas White, Japanese representatives, Mr. MATSUI Masahiro, and UNRWA senior staff. The occurrence contained speeches, narrative Japan poetry, Karate show, and flying kites.
Director of UNRWA Affairs in Gaza, Thomas White, said, “This event highlights the close relationship between Japanese people and Palestine refugees in Gaza. Even while recovering from the earthquake and tsunami and during the COVID-19 global pandemic, Japan continued its strong support for Palestine refugees. While still recovering from the May 2021 hostilities, Gaza continues to express its gratitude to Japan. The event is a reminder of both people’s strength and resilience.”.
“I would like to thank every one of you “young generation” for your participation with commitment and enthusiasm. You are so committed to being part of this activity to remind us all just, of how important our work is. We believe that cultural events hold moral and spiritual values, they help you be active, resilient, creative, and experienced in communities’ diversity. I hope that you will get acquainted with Japan and discover something new from today’s event. We are here to strengthen our existing good friends and to create more opportunities for cultural exchange.” Mr. MATSUI Masahiro, Head of Economic and Development Cooperation Section and Representative office of Japan to Palestine reported.
UNRWA stays thankful to Japan for their continued help to Palestine refugees in Gaza and for the tight connection they communicate, especially in this difficult time. Japan has been sustaining Palestine refugees through UNRWA since 1953.
Japan has been supporting other tasks in Gaza in different areas such as sports, employment, education, health, and infrastructure. Last year, Japan’s contribution to UNRWA surpassed 50 million USD and it already donated around 15 million USD via its Additional funding.
The lasting support from the Government of Japan will allow the Agency to supply necessary assistance to Palestine refugees across the Middle East, even at the beginning of its ongoing economic challenges.
