British News Agency

Palestinian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Shaheen met in Ramallah with Jaco Cilliers, the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) Special Representative of the Administrator in Palestine.

According to a statement by the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the meeting addressed strengthening cooperation and support for the Palestinian people, as well as the latest developments in UNDP’s work in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Shaheen expressed appreciation for UNDP’s work, describing the programme as an important partner in Gaza. Drawing attention to the serious humanitarian and development needs in Gaza, Shaheen said support should be increased as winter approaches and thousands of Palestinians continue to face shelter problems.

Shaheen emphasized the need to increase support particularly in the areas of debris removal, waste management, water and sanitation, temporary shelter and the restoration of livelihoods. She also highlighted the importance of strengthening support for affected institutions and communities in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

Cilliers, for his part, said UNDP would continue supporting the Palestinian people and briefed Shaheen on the programme’s latest activities and projects. Cilliers expressed appreciation for the Palestinian Foreign Ministry’s diplomatic and practical support and emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation and coordination with the ministry and Palestinian institutions.

Cilliers also said UNDP is ready to provide support for the electoral process in Palestine.