France Donates $400,000 To Refugees Living In Iran : UNHCR

Tehran, Jan 22, IRNA – The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) recently received some dlrs 400,000 as a donation from the government of France contributing towards health, education and vocational training of Afghan refugees. The Islamic Republic of Iran is host to the second largest refugee population in the world, holding some 890,000 registered Afghan and Iraqi refugees, a press release issued by the UNHCR announced. Whilst appreciating the continuous effort and commitment of governments regarding humanitarian affairs at a time of global economic turmoil, Bernard Doyle, UNHCR Iran Representative said, ˈUNHCR greatly appreciates the generous contribution of the French government, for the second year in a row since 2011, which will aid us in providing better support and protection for refugees.ˈ This donation will go towards affordable medical consultation fees and treatment, community based health programs, life-saving medical assistance and access to health insurance; a matter of critical importance for refugees at such times of difficult deteriorating economic conditions. This year the area of contribution has been expanded to education as well. This will allow near 290,000 refugee students enjoy unhindered access to primary and post primary education whilst also providing literacy classes for adult students. Additional projects to be covered by this donation are technical and vocational skills training for refugees, a matter of key importance in sustainable return to their home country./end