JERUSALEM, September 1, 2016 (WAFA) - The Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Pierre Krähenbühl, carried out his first official trip to India this week in order to build stronger relations between the Agency and India, an UNRWA press release said on Thursday.

Krathenbuhl, who started his four day visit on August 28, discussed with several senior government officials Indian support to UNRWA and conveyed his determination to strengthen engagement with India, a country which has strong historical ties with the Middle East and links to the issue of Palestine.

He sought the views of Indian officials on attempts to improve the situation of Palestine refugees and address the root causes of conflict through diplomatic means, said the release.

The Commissioner-General also had several speaking engagements with research centers and universities.

The meetings offered an opportunity to develop a better understanding of India‘s views on the Middle East and to highlight the challenges and expectations of Palestine refugees, in particular in Gaza and Syria, as well as the Agency’s role and contribution to human development, mainly through education, said the press release.

“I am deeply encouraged by the meetings held in Delhi and the strong expressions of respect for UNRWA’s work,” said Krähenbühl at the conclusion of his visit.

“The commitment by the Government of India to increasing forms of partnership with the Agency is very much appreciated. UNRWA is determined to build on this in coming years to improve its response to the critical needs of Palestine refugees,” he said.

M.A.