PLO warns of impact of Sweden's decision to stop UNRWA funding

RAMALLAH, Dec. 23 (Xinhua) -- The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) warned on Monday about the impact of Sweden's decision to cut its funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

During a meeting with Swedish Consul General Julius Liljestrom in Ramallah, Ahmed Abu Houli, a member of the PLO Executive Committee and head of the Department of Refugee Affairs, said that Sweden's decision would have serious and immediate effects on UNRWA's operations, including its ability to pay the salaries of its employees, according to a PLO statement.

Abu Houli urged the Swedish government to reconsider its decision and lead European efforts to support UNRWA politically and financially, stressing the need to protect UNRWA's mandate to uphold the rights of Palestinian refugees and ensure a fair solution in line with international law and UN resolutions.

He stressed that UNRWA's presence and ongoing services in Gaza, the West Bank, Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan are crucial for regional stability, serving as a lifeline for Palestinian refugees who depend on the agency's services, including food and cash assistance.

The Swedish consul general expressed understanding of the Palestinian concerns and reaffirmed his country's commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause and pursuing fair and comprehensive solutions.

He added that Sweden would review the concerns and submit recommendations to its government in line with its international and humanitarian obligations.

On Friday, Swedish media reported that Sweden had decided to stop funding the UN agency and instead plans to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza "through other channels." ■