New York, March 31 (QNA) - UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has appointed Christian Saunders, the Special Coordinator for Improving the UN Response to Exploitation and Abuse, as Acting Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), effective Wednesday, Apr. 1, until Jun. 30, 2026, and as Acting Commissioner-General of UNRWA from Jul. 1, 2026, until further notice.

Saunders will succeed Philippe Lazzarini, whose term ends today, Tuesday, March 31.

Guterres expressed his deep gratitude to Lazzarini for his tireless commitment and outstanding dedication to UNRWA and Palestine refugees.

He reiterated his profound support and appreciation for UNRWA staff for the vital work they carry out in the areas of health, education, and humanitarian assistance under extremely challenging circumstances.

The UN Secretary-General also reiterated the critical importance of member states and other partners remaining committed to supporting UNRWA and the services it provides in a volatile region. (QNA)