Cairo, 9 April 2014 - The World Health Organization (WHO) has received a contribution of US$ 10 million from the Government of Kuwait to support its activities in Syria as a result of the crisis. This contribution is a continuation of the US$ 35 million support already provided by Kuwait in 2013.
“WHO extends its profound gratitude to the Government of the State of Kuwait for the new donation, which makes it possible for WHO to continue to reach vulnerable people in both Syria and neighbouring countries to provide access to basic and essential life-saving care,” said Dr Ala Alwan, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean.
In a commemorative ceremony held at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, H.E. Dr Abdullah Al-Matouq, Special Adviser to His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait presented the donation, which was commended by Dr Keiji Fukuda, WHO’s Assistant Director General for Health Security and Environment, who said that, “The assistance provided by Kuwait will contribute to delivering medicines, vaccines and medical care for close to 7 million people inside Syria and in neighbouring countries”.
Kuwait has played a major role as a contributor to WHO’s efforts in strengthening disease surveillance and polio and measles vaccination of millions of children. This in addition to securing medicines, vaccines, surgical supplies and medical equipment in hard-to-reach hospitals and health centres.
WHO will ensure that the new contribution of US$ 10 million is effectively utilized for the life-saving care of millions of Syrians victimized by the crisis, with focus on pressing needs, such as vaccination, and on improved disease surveillance systems.
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