The Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Philippe Lazzarini, concluded an official visit to Tokyo from 5 - 7 October.

During the visit, Lazzarini met with Japan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Yoshimasa Hayashi, numerous senior Japanese and UN officials, and Arab ambassadors based in Japan.

The Commissioner-General highlighted the critical situation of Palestine refugees and the Agency’s financial crisis, and discussed ways to mobilize sustainable support.

During the meetings, Lazzarini commended the political support of Japan to Palestine refugees and UNRWA and briefed his interlocutors on the deteriorating conditions of Palestine refugees across the region. The Commissioner-General asked for continued Japanese solidarity with Palestine refugees, especially during this mandate renewal year and in light of the 70th anniversary of Japan-UNRWA relations in 2023.

"Japan is among UNRWA’s most critical political and financial supporters”, said Lazzarini. “Such consistent support is the cornerstone on which UNRWA’s work with and for Palestine refugees rests. I thank the Government of Japan for its kindness and generosity towards those suffering from the world’s most protracted refugee crisis. I look forward to continuing our cooperation.”