 | Ambassador Russom signs the visitors' book |
The new Permanent Representative of Eritrea to UN-HABITAT, H.E. Mr. Beyene Russom, presented his credentials to Dr. Joan Clos, Executive Director of UN-HABITAT, who assured the Republic of Eritrea of the organization's support in the country's development efforts, particularly in the areas of human settlements and urban development. The Executive Director also informed the envoy that UN-HABITAT, together with other United Nations agencies, was involved in the provision of shelter and related technical and material assistance to returning internally displaced persons (IDPs). The US$350,000 project aims at assisting the most vulnerable in the communities, particularly women-headed households. Mr. Russom called for greater cooperation between Eritrea and UN-HABITAT and the nations of the world noting the long and strong bond of friendship between his country and UN-HABITAT, stating that: "Eritrea follows UN-HABITAT guidelines on housing, gender and development". The envoy noted that Eritrea was doing well despite economic and human settlements problems. He said that one of the priorities of the Government is to provide affordable houses. He recalled that after the war of independence, Eritrea embarked on infrastructure development in both urban and rural areas in order to stem migration. The envoy invited the Executive Director to visit Eritrea to explore ways in which UN-HABITAT can best assist the country. An invitation which Dr. Clos accepted, saying he looked forward to visiting the country sometime of the future.
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