UAE reiterates support for Lebanon at UN briefing

The UAE reiterated its support for the people of Lebanon during a virtual briefing by the United Nations on the humanitarian situation in the country following the Beirut explosion.

Amiera Alhefeiti, Deputy Permanent Representative and Charge d’Affaires of the UAE to the UN, said: "The resilience of the Lebanese people is legendary, but this is clearly a moment when international support is essential."

She added that the UAE will continue to coordinate with the UN and humanitarian agencies in helping Lebanon recover.

More than 80 tonnes of aid have already been dispatched from the Emirates, and the country is now preparing to send more.

Soon after the explosion, the UAE joined hands with the World Health Organisation (WHO), and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), to send 30 tonnes of medical supplies and surgical kits.

Subsequently, the UAE dispatched two additional flights carrying 51 tonnes of aid; and is now preparing further assistance, including through the patronage of His Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation.

The virtual briefing, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, provided an update on the humanitarian situation, as well as the approach of the UN and its humanitarian partners in responding to the medical, food and economic crisis set off by the explosion.

The briefing was also attended by foreign ministers of Egypt, Jordan, Algeria and Iraq.

UAE Reaffirms Support for People of Lebanon.https://t.co/U3NYLH3M9o

— MoFA وزارة الخارجية (@mofauae) August 11, 2020