GAZA, June 15, 2009 (WAFA)- Quartet Representative Tony Blair returned, Monday, to the Gaza Strip to meet with representatives of local NGOs, civic society, and businessmen.

Blair will get the latest situational updates from UN officials while at the UN headquarters.

Tony Blair said, 'I have returned to Gaza today to hear directly from local Palestinians about the tough situation they continue to face here. It is vitally important to maintain our focus on the genuine humanitarian concerns that still exist here in Gaza”.

He added, that “we need to ensure that the housing and infrastructure is being repaired for the people.” At the same time, he said that reviving the private sector and developing the economy in Gaza is essential to make people believe that there is a prospect for that shared future of two states living side by side in peace.”

Blair has repeatedly stressed with the Government of Israel the need to open up Gaza, by easing the opening of crossings and allowing appropriate cash and goods in for business and reconstruction.