The Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) and the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), on Wednesday announced a landmark initiative to support the Syrian population. The announcement was made on the sidelines of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly.

The QFFD and SFD are providing $89m in funding through UNDP to ensure continuity of essential public services throughout Syria over a three-month period. This joint funding will deliver vital budgetary support by enabling the payment of a portion of salaries for government employees who are responsible for the core government functions related to delivering basic essential services.

By maintaining these critical services, the initiative aims to reinforce social protection, enhance stability, and support inclusive socio-economic recovery across the country.

QFFD Director General Fahad Hamad Al Sulaiti commented: “This initiative reflects our shared vision to promote stability and build resilience for the brotherly Syrian people. We firmly believe that investing in essential public services is not only an urgent humanitarian necessity, but also a strategic long-term investment in achieving sustainable development, preserving human dignity, and laying the foundations for peace and prosperity.”

SFD CEO Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al Marshad stated that the grant comes as part of Saudi Arabia’s wise leadership and its continued efforts to maintain development support for the brotherly Syrian people.

Syrian Minister of Finance Mohamad Yisr Barnieh  expressed his government’s sincere appreciation to both the entities, which would contribute to the financing of a portion of civil servant salaries.

Haoliang Xu, UNDP Acting Administrator, said: “We’re grateful for the generous contributions of the Qatari and Saudi funds for development, which address the immediate needs of the Syrian population while laying the groundwork for long-term recovery and development.”

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