Turkish Foreign Minister Meets with UN Humanitarian Chief
Ankara, December 23, 2024 – Turkey’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hakan Fidan, met with Tom Fletcher, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, on December 20, 2024, in Ankara.
The meeting focused on the ongoing humanitarian crises in Syria, Afghanistan, and Ukraine. Minister Fidan expressed Turkey’s deep concern over the plight of civilians affected by these conflicts and emphasized the importance of providing urgent humanitarian assistance.
Under-Secretary-General Fletcher commended Turkey’s significant contributions to humanitarian efforts worldwide, particularly in hosting a large number of refugees from the Syrian conflict. He expressed the UN’s gratitude for Turkey’s continued support and stressed the need for international collaboration to address global humanitarian challenges.
The two officials discussed the need for increased funding for humanitarian programs and the importance of ensuring that aid reaches those in need in a timely and efficient manner. They also explored ways to enhance cooperation between Turkey and the UN in delivering humanitarian assistance.
Specifically, Minister Fidan and Under-Secretary-General Fletcher agreed to work together on:
- Coordinating relief efforts: Establishing a joint working group to ensure effective coordination of aid operations and avoid duplication.
- Addressing funding gaps: Advocating for increased international funding to address humanitarian emergencies.
- Improving access to aid: Facilitating safe and unimpeded access for humanitarian workers to deliver essential supplies and services.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from both sides to continue working closely to meet the humanitarian needs of vulnerable populations around the world.
Background:
Turkey is one of the largest humanitarian aid providers globally, hosting over 3.6 million Syrian refugees. The country has also played a significant role in response efforts to conflicts in Yemen, Somalia, and Bangladesh.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is responsible for coordinating the global humanitarian response and providing emergency assistance to those affected by natural disasters and armed conflicts.
Quotes:
“Turkey is committed to supporting humanitarian efforts worldwide, and we believe that collaboration with the UN is essential for addressing the challenges facing vulnerable populations,” said Minister Fidan.
“The UN is grateful for Turkey’s unwavering support for humanitarianism and recognizes the country’s valuable role as a refuge for millions of displaced people,” said Under-Secretary-General Fletcher.
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REPUBLIC OF TÜRKİYE a new article on 2024-12-23 14:20 titled “Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan received Tom Fletcher, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, 20 December 2024, Ankara”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
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