UNRWA, Syria, Haiti, & other topics - Daily Press Briefing (10 May 2024)

Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General. Highlights: -Secretary-General/Kenya -Secretary-General/Trip Announcement -Occupied Palestinian Territory -UNRWA -Syria -Haiti -Chad -Zimbabwe -Kuwait/Gaza Conference -Ukraine/Recovery -Peacebuilding Commission -Senior Personnel Appointment -International Days -Financial Contribution SECRETARY-GENERAL/KENYA In Nairobi, the Secretary-General spoke today at the United Nations Civil Society Conference in Support of the Summit of the Future. He said that, whether on climate, gender equality or peace, he has witnessed the enormous impact of civil society in every corner of the world. He encouraged the representatives - most young people - to continue working with the United Nations to build a better world. As outlined in his “Our Common Agenda” report, Mr. Guterres said we need a vision for a more inclusive, networkedand effective multilateralism - one where the contributions of civil society are recognised as central, not a token or an afterthought. He said that “We won’t give up in the struggle for peace, justice and human rights, and I know you won’teither.  My best hope for the future is you.” In remarks to the press, the Secretary-General extended his deepest condolences to all those affected by the devastating floods that have swept through Kenya and neighbouring countries. The United Nations stands in solidarity with the Kenyan people, he said. He added that we will continue working hand-in-hand to support Government relief efforts in any way that we can. The Secretary-General reiterated his appeal for the Government of Israel and the leadership of Hamas to demonstrate political courage and spare no effort to reach agreement to stop the bloodshed – and to free the hostages. He said that we are actively engaging with all involved for the resumption of the entry of life-saving supplies – including desperately needed fuel – through the Rafah and Kerem Shalom crossings. But he warned that a massive ground attack in Rafah would lead to an epic humanitarian disaster and pull the plug on our efforts to support people as famine looms. In a bilateral meeting with the President of Kenya, William Ruto, the Secretary-General expressed his condolences for the loss of life and damage caused by recent flooding. He also saluted Kenya’s leadership of the Multinational Security Support Mission that is so desperately needed for Haiti. On the sidelines of the conference, the Secretary-General will meet with the co-facilitators of the Summit of the Future, the Permanent Representatives of Namibia and Germany. SECRETARY-GENERAL/TRIP ANNOUNCEMENT After Nairobi, the Secretary-General will be heading to Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain. On Sunday, 12 May, he will arrive in Kuwait City early in the morning for an official visit. While there, he is expected to hold meetings with His Highness, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Amir of the State of Kuwait. Discussions will focus on the situation in the region and beyond. The second stop will be on Monday, 13 May, where he will be heading to Oman, for more discussions. In Muscat, he will meet with His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik. From there, the Secretary-General will travel to Manama, in Bahrain, where the Arab League Summit is taking place. He will deliver remarks to the summit. In Manama, the Secretary-General will hold discussions with leaders attending the summit. Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon...