KUWAIT, May 5 (KUNA) -- Visiting UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Antonio Guterres stressed on Sunday the significance of Kuwait's recent donation to Syrian refugees.
He told a news conference that Kuwait was playing a key humanitarian role in the alleviation of the humanitarian situation in Syria through its bountiful donation to Syrian refugees.
Kuwait had pledged USD 300 million in aid to Syrian refugees during an international donor conference for Syria in Kuwait in January 2013.
The UN official said the Kuwaiti donation had come at a critical time for Syrian refugees whose number was steadily increasing.
He called on the international community to greatly appreciate Kuwait's unconditioned donation.
Guterres appreciated His Highness the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah's contribution to humanitarian activities and relief issues.
He estimated the number of Syrian refugees in Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq and Turkey at over 1.5 million, a figure which is expected to double within a week.
Meanwhile, the visiting UN official met Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS) Chairman Barjas Al-Barjas on ways and means of bilateral cooperation in the field of humanitarian activities.
Speaking to reporters following the meeting, the UN official commended the role of the KRCS in humanitarian aid, especially to Syrian refugees.
Al-Barjas vowed that his society would continue offering relief aid to Syrian refugees in Jordan and Lebanon.
Antonio Guterres is here on a day visit to Kuwait in order to offer thanks to the Kuwaiti government for humanitarian aid to Syrian refugees. (end) akw.nfa.mt KUNA 052106 May 13NNNN