Viet Nam Reaffirms Support for UNRWA and Readiness to Assist Gaza Recovery

On July 22 in Manila, the Philippines, Deputy Foreign Minister Dang Hoang Giang met with UNRWA Acting Commissioner-General Christian Saunders to reaffirm Vietnam’s standing support for the agency’s mandate. Giang expressed deep condolences regarding the recent loss of UNRWA personnel and affirmed Vietnam’s commitment to advocating for the conditions necessary for UNRWA to fulfill its United Nations-mandated tasks.

The Vietnamese official praised UNRWA’s ongoing efforts to provide humanitarian, educational, and healthcare assistance to Palestinians amid the complex situation in the region. He stated that Vietnam remains ready to join humanitarian relief, recovery, and reconstruction efforts in the Gaza Strip when conditions permit, emphasizing a desire to seek practical ways to support the Palestinian people.

Giang indicated that Vietnam could contribute in areas aligned with its specific capacity and experience, including construction, engineering, healthcare, education, and post-conflict recovery. He expressed hope that UNRWA would continue to share information and provide advice on practical needs on the ground, identifying areas where Vietnamese contributions could be effective.

In response, Saunders thanked Vietnam for its political support and practical contributions to UNRWA’s emergency relief operations. He evaluated Vietnam’s stance on the Palestinian issue as consistent and responsible, noting the country’s efforts to support people in the Gaza Strip.

Saunders briefed the deputy minister on UNRWA’s operations under extremely difficult conditions, noting that the agency continues to maintain around 11,000 staff in the Gaza Strip. These personnel provide humanitarian assistance, education, healthcare, clean water, and sanitation services to the population.

He also highlighted growing difficulties in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, including displacement, the closure of educational and healthcare facilities, and restrictions on UNRWA operations. Saunders stressed the urgent need for continued international attention and support for the Palestinian people, leading to an agreement between the two sides to maintain exchanges and close coordination in the coming time.

The diplomatic exchange underscores a shared recognition of the severe humanitarian needs in the Holy Land, reflecting a call for mercy and accountability in the face of displacement and restricted access to basic services. As nations consider their roles in reconstruction and relief, the imperative to pursue peace and care for the vulnerable remains central, echoing the biblical call to seek peace and pursue righteousness in the midst of conflict (Psalm 122:6).

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