Hama Governorate, Elaf’s Austrian partner discuss cooperation
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Hama Governorate discussed with Elaf RD’s Austrian partner, Hilfswerk International, ways to strengthen cooperation under the “Syria Without Camps” initiative to support early recovery and development projects, improve basic services, and advance plans for the return of displaced people from camps in northern Syria to their areas of origin in the governorate.
The discussions took place during a meeting chaired by Hassan al-Hassan, the executive committee representative for Hama governorate within the “Syria Without Camps” initiative, with representatives of the Austrian organization and the initiative’s working team in attendance. The meeting focused on development needs and priorities for the next phase.
The two sides explored the implementation of new projects aimed at upgrading infrastructure, strengthening the health and education sectors, supporting local stability, and improving living conditions for residents.
Participants also reviewed projects completed in recent months, including the rehabilitation of several schools, livelihood support programs, and development initiatives designed to promote sustainability. They discussed challenges encountered during implementation and ways to address them.
Both sides stressed the need to maintain close coordination to launch additional projects supporting the recovery process in Hama governorate, secure the necessary funding, and continue implementing existing plans.
The discussions were held within the framework of the “Syria Without Camps” initiative, established under Presidential Decree No. 59. The initiative’s steering committee previously met with UN Special Rapporteur on the human rights of internally displaced persons Paula Gaviria Betancur to discuss internal displacement in Syria and efforts to ensure the safe and dignified return of displaced people.
That meeting also addressed the humanitarian and service-related challenges facing displaced families and ways to strengthen cooperation between Syrian institutions and the United Nations in support of sustainable solutions to the displacement issue.