Organization of Islamic Cooperation and United Nations sign partnership agreement on humanitarian issues

(Jeddah/New York, 14 November 2011) Closer cooperation on humanitarian issues is the aim of a partnership agreement signed today in Jeddah by Valerie Amos, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, and H.E. Dr. Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

“We greatly value the partnership we already have with the OIC and its Member States on humanitarian issues,” noted Valerie Amos. “This agreement formalizes our intention to work more closely together on relief coordination, fundraising and preparedness, so that we can save more lives.”

Against a backdrop of growing humanitarian emergencies in the region and around the world, stronger cooperation with organizations which play such a key role in humanitarian response operations is vital.

The Memorandum of Understanding between OCHA and OIC provides a framework for regular dialogue and exchange of information between the two organizations, as well as closer coordination during humanitarian operations. The agreement also focuses on ensuring better preparedness for emergencies and the protection of civilians in armed conflict.

“Together we can better respond to challenges like the desperate humanitarian crisis in the Horn of Africa,” underscored Dr. Ihsanoglu at the signing ceremony. “The UN and OIC can play complementary roles, enhancing humanitarian operations and assisting people more quickly and effectively”.

Dr. Rima Salah, UNICEF Deputy Executive Director, stressed the importance of stronger coordination: “In countries like Somalia, aid agencies and NGOs from all over the world are working round the clock to save as many lives as possible. Working together means we can help many more children and prevent death and disease.”