“They need understanding, solidarity and support” … / videos

On June 20, the “Dialogue with journalists’ round table was held in the office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees on World Refugee Day which is a part of campaign “We are standing with refugees”.

During the meeting with journalists, UNHCR’s representative in Armenia Christoph Birvirth addressing the issue of the conflict in Syria and its impact on Armenia  stated that even in conditions of  permanent supervision of the international community and all efforts exerted in this zone peace is not restored.

Instead, recent military operations in Aleppo led to new casualties and suffering among the civilian population. People continue fleeing the conflict zones in Syria despite facing the challenges while mowing to more stringent protective environment and safe zone.

“NGO partners have reported about 550 needy of the Syrian people who are looking for support from Armenia. As soon as they arrive, UNHCR and its partners are ready to offer humanitarian assistance by providing the initial amount of partial compensation fee of housing”,- said  Birwirth.

Commenting on the new emigration which is the result of the escalation of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Mr. Birvirte noted that the vast majority of the displaced population, women, children, the elderly, pregnant women and nursing mothers, people who are sick and disabled people, the majority of the displaced families were hosted by their relatives or friends who also have social problems.

The head of the Armenian office said that as a result of the April war 1400 victims were provided assistance. He also expressed hope that after to Armenia and Azerbaijani presidents’  meeting and  the Pope’s visit tension will be weaken.

Full text in Armenian