Syria, UNHCR discuss the issue of refugees’ return

Damascus, The Minister of Local Administration and Environment, Engineer Hussein Makhlouf, discussed with the head of the UNHCR mission in Syria Sivanka Dhanapala and the accompanying delegation the latest developments regarding the work of the Commission, the projects being implemented and the possibility of expanding them.

The two sides discussed the issue of the refugees’ return. Minister Makhlouf stressed that the government’s priority is to work to facilitate the refugees’ safe and voluntary return and to secure their requirements and needs and focus on implementing some projects that guarantee their stability and improve their livelihood.

Makhlouf praised the steps taken by the Commission in this field, including providing humanitarian aid or supporting livelihoods, in addition to implementing response programs to help those affected by the earthquake. He pointed to the continued cooperation and coordination with the commission and the providing of all necessary facilities to implement joint plans and programs, especially in the light of the increased needs.

In turn, Dhanapala thanked the Syrian government for the facilities it provides to make the work of the Commission successful and to create appropriate conditions for the return of refugees, noting that there are high rates of implementation of projects carried out by the Commission, which will help in securing better funding to implement new projects according to the established work mechanisms and specified time programs .

During the meeting, the need to continue implementing solar lighting projects was stressed due to their importance, to increase activities in areas affected by the earthquake and to expand livelihood projects that provide support to the most needy families.

Raghda Sawas