Arab News Japan

DUBAI: Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs TSUJI Kiyoto told UNRWA Commissioner General Philippe Lazzarini to “take the appropriate measures” during a meeting on Feb. 27.

According to statement by the Foreign Ministry, Tsuji, who is visiting Palestine, requested that UNRWA strengthens governance, after the organization’s alleged involvement in Hamas’ Oct. 7 attacks.

Last month, Israel reported that UNRWA was involved in the attacks. Japan and several other countries have since suspended funding, leaving civilians in war-torn Gaza to suffer the consequences.

Lazzarini explained UNRWA’s efforts to strengthen its governance, while stating that he would like to value the relationship of trust with Japan, an important partner with which UNRWA has been working closely for many years.

They reiterated their concerns over the worsening humanitarian situation of Palestine refugees, and agreed to continue to communicate closely with each other, taking into account the progress of the UN investigation and the independent review, as well as moves taken by other donor countries.

Tsuji was also present as Japan and Palestine exchanged letters concerning grant aid worth 500 million yen ($3.3 million) in Ramallah. 

NAKAJIMA Yoichi, Ambassador in charge of Palestine Relations and Director of the Japanese Government’s Representative Office to Palestine, and Palestine Minister of Finance Shukri Bishara carried out the signing and exchange of letters. The aid was for “Project for Provision of Distance Education Equipment.” 

In the Palestinian Territories, the number of schools is insufficient for the number of children and students, so classes are forced to be held in two or three shifts, resulting in insufficient class time for each child and student. Securing learning opportunities for children and students has become an urgent issue, as commuting to school is severely restricted due to the lack of security and the unstable security situation.

Japan’s aid will allow TV stations in the West Bank to acquire filming equipment to produce audiovisual teaching materials. Schools in the same area will be equipped with audiovisual and ICT (Information and Communication Technology) equipment that can support distance learning and help improve primary education.