Japan Supports Emergency Recovery Program in Palestine with Over $27 Million

SadaNews - Today, Minister of Finance and Planning Dr. Estephan Salama signed a new Japanese support agreement as part of the emergency recovery program to enhance the continuous provision of essential and humanitarian services in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

The agreement was signed at the Ministry of Finance and Planning, in the presence of the Japanese Ambassador to Palestine, Aryaki Matsuhiko, and a representative from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), as part of Japan's ongoing commitment to support the Palestinian people. Several ministers and heads of partner government agencies also participated in the signing ceremony, including the Minister of Health, Minister of Local Government, Minister of Public Works and Housing, Head of the Water Authority, and Head of the Energy Authority.

 The value of the support in the second phase of the program is 27.3 million US dollars, and it will be allocated to support five vital sectors in collaboration with governmental institutions and agencies, which are:

1. Waste Sector: Support for waste management and improving services.

2. Health Sector: Ensuring the continuity of health services and providing medical equipment.

3. Infrastructure: Enhancing road safety and essential services.

4. Water and Sanitation Sector: Improving the quality of services and expanding access to them.

5. Energy and Electricity Sector: Supporting and enhancing the quality and efficiency of services.

The Minister of Finance and Planning welcomed the Japanese support and the efforts of the Japanese government in enhancing emergency response, emphasizing the deep historical relations between the two countries. Minister Salama stated that the support represents an important step to enhance the resilience of citizens and improve essential services across various sectors, indicating that it reflects the commitment of international partners to assist the State of Palestine in facing current challenges.

 The Japanese ambassador emphasized his country’s commitment to continuing support for the Palestinian people under difficult circumstances and contributing to fostering stability and sustainable development in Palestine.