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First ever int'l humanitarian forum opens in Saudi capital

RIYADH, Feb 26 (KUNA) -- Saudi Arabia has unveiled its e-platform for humanitarian aid in an international forum that kicked off Monday under the auspices of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud.
Addressing the opening ceremony for the inaugural "Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum," the general supervisor of the King Salman Center for Relief and Humanitarian Aid Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabiah hailed the facility as a bastion of humanity.
Since its launch, the center has been instrumental in providing aid to hapless people in 40 nations across four continents, he pointed out.
On the "international quality" e-platform, the first such project in the region, Al-Rabiah said the portal is a comprehensive source that details the Kingdom's contributions towards humanitarian causes. Meanwhile, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres spoke of the "dire need to assist vulnerable people and protect civilians." In a recorded statement, he added that the conflicts in Syria, Iraq and Libya have caused unspeakable misery, which in turn, increases the burden on aid givers.
Guterres urged the international community to stand by victims of conflicts and disasters, people who have had their lives thrown into disarray.
The forum brings together professionals and key decision-makers in the humanitarian community, including representatives from over 150 nations, heads of state and hundreds of civil society as well as non-governmental organizations. (end) mdm.nam