RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, 23 April 2013 - A fifty year partnership that has benefitted millions of children around the Islamic world was the focus of this week's visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by UNICEF Executive Director, Anthony Lake.
"Throughout the many years we have worked together, the Saudi government - as well as individual donors and the general public - have generously supported UNICEF's mission and we are most grateful," Lake said.
This support has helped secure gains in children's health, education and protection in various parts of the world, including Afghanistan, Lebanon, Pakistan, the State of Palestine, Somalia, Yemen and elsewhere.
UNICEF has worked with the Saudi Government on implementing national campaigns and projects raising awareness on early childhood development, healthy lifestyles among young people and the protection of children.
During his visit, Lake held discussions with senior officials which focused on efforts to reduce child mortality worldwide through the promotion of immunization and reducing child malnutrition. The current humanitarian crisis in Syria and neighboring countries was also discussed.
"The Government of Saudi Arabia has always been a firm supporter of UNICEF's mission to help improve the lives of children in need," Lake said. "We look forward to a new chapter in our collaboration and strategic partnership in achieving equitable results for children."
For further information, please contact:
Simon Ingram, UNICEF Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa, singram@unicef.org; +962 79 590 4740
Sarah Crowe, UNICEF Spokesperson, +1 212 326 7206, Mobile: +1 646 209 1590, scrowe@unicef.org
© Press Release 2013
