New york: The State of Qatar has actively participated in the High-Level International Conference on the Repatriation of Persons from Al Hol, Surrounding Camps, and Places of Detention in Syria. This event was organized by Iraq and the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism and took place alongside the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
According to Qatar News Agency, the conference saw representation from the State of Qatar by HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi. During his address, he emphasized the security threat and humanitarian issues posed by the Al Hol and Al Roj camps, as well as detention centers in northeastern Syria. He highlighted the necessity for political will and international collaboration to facilitate the return of detainees to their respective countries for trial and ensure their reintegration, particularly focusing on women and children.
Dr. Al Khulaifi detailed the harsh conditions faced by detainees, including severe shortages of essential needs and security threats, and stressed the universal desire among detainees to return home. He shared success stories of returnees who have reintegrated successfully due to support from authorities and communities.
He praised the efforts made by Iraq and Central Asian countries in repatriating and rehabilitating their citizens, and acknowledged the Syrian government's commitment to resolving these issues with international cooperation. The role of the United Nations in aiding this international effort was also commended.
The Minister further asserted that moral obligations, security considerations, and success stories should drive continued efforts to repatriate those in dire situations back to their homelands for a peaceful future. Qatar has supported these efforts through financial backing of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism and as a leading partner of the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund, which has successfully aided the reintegration of Iraqi returnees.