UNICEF signs an agreement with the International Islamic Relief Organization

The ceremony was also attended by Dr. Ibrahim bin Mohammed Manaa, Programmes and Sponsorships General Manager, IIROSA and Mr. Esmaeil Al-Azhari, Programme Officer, UNICEF.

This MoU is the result of both organizations' interest in strengthening the cooperation between humanitarian and social associations and organizations and to support children related issues including child rights, health, equality and protection in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and other countries.

"The partnership with IIROSA is in-line with UNICEF's policy that encourages the exchange of expertise and experiences regionally and internationally; and to collaborate and join forces as part of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGS). It's also one of UNICEF's strategic goals to provide what is in the best interest of children,"

said Dr. Abu Laban.

"Building partnerships with leading organizations like the International Relief organization is the result of our trust in their continuous and effective efforts to protect and secure a better future for children," he added.

Through this MoU both organizations agree to collaborate in several areas including: To focus their capacities and efforts to support national and international implementation of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs); Ensure an effective contribution to poverty reduction and support infants, children and maternal care at the family, community, service-provider and policy levels. The support will also include contribution to the improvement of quality education and high enrollment in schools, retention and completion, especially for girls in addition to ensuring education in emergencies and supporting the United Nations Girls' Education Initiative. In addition, the parties will work on providing increased care and intensive services for vulnerable and orphaned children by HIV/AIDS and prevention programs for children and adolescents.

Both organizations also commit to join forces to protect children from violence, exploitation, abuse, and conflicts and to put children on the priority lists in terms of policies, legislations and budgetary coordinated operations in emergency and humanitarian relief assistance. Collaboration in the areas of human resources development through exchange of staff, exchange of expertise and trainings are also included.