Doha, August 19 (QNA) - World Health Organization (WHO) Representative to the State of Qatar Dr. Rayana Bou Haka praised Doha's role in humanitarian response efforts.
This came on the occasion of the World Humanitarian Day, where Dr. Bou Haka told Qatar News Agency (QNA) that the country plays a pioneering role in addressing the root causes of humanitarian crises thanks to its diplomatic efforts seeking to achieve peace through negotiations, resolve conflicts by peaceful means, and protect lives.
She added that Qatar is not content with merely funding relief programs, but is increasingly seeking to play a role in devising innovative development solutions.
The United Nations (UN) and its agencies' presence in Qatar at the UN House in Dohaآ is a recognition of the State of Qatar's leading role in tackling the root causes of crises before they reach the stage where humanitarian relief is needed, Dr. Bou Haka added.
These agencies' work contributes to the success of Qatari initiatives carried out in partnership with international organizations, she said. Qatar's partnership with UN agencies is particularly significant, not only because of Doha's contributions to emergency humanitarian response efforts and its funding of long-term programs, but also because of Qatar's pivotal role in defusing conflicts and disputes.
Doha's approach is important because it salvages people and humanitarian workers from falling victim to crises or being affected by them, the WHO Representative to Qatar added.
In this context, UN agencies and humanitarian organizations marked the World Humanitarian Day with a solidarity stand at the UN House in Doha.
During the event, participants reaffirmed the importance of having a shared commitment to protecting civilians and humanitarian workers, respecting international humanitarian law, and ensuring safe, sustained, unhindered, and timely humanitarian access.
The solidarity stand came as part the broader #ActForHumanity campaign that is taking place across Qatar this year, which includes meetings, events, in addition to media and digital campaigns.
The #ActForHumanity campaign also consists of a photo exhibition that sheds light on humanitarian response work and humanitarian workers, which was implemented in cooperation with the Qatar Red Crescent Society.
Public spaces will also see campaign displays, with several prominent landmarks being illuminated with the #ActForHumanity message. (QNA)