Caracas, 3 August 2022 (TDI): The UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Martin Griffiths, visited Venezuela to address humanitarian needs in the country.
The purpose of the three-day visit from 31 July to 2 August was to support the ongoing efforts for basic humanitarian and social needs in Venezuela. During the mission, the Secretary-General met Government officials and various stakeholders.
Additionally, Griffiths also met humanitarian partners in Venezuela to strengthen health projects. Moreover, the purpose of the visit was also to discuss ways to mobilize additional resources to scale up the response.
Meeting with the Officials
The meeting between the President of Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro, and Martin Griffiths took place at the Miraflores Palace – the official residence of the President of Venezuela.
During the meeting, the two officials discussed ways to elevate the socio-economic conditions in Venezuela. Moreover, the President specified with historical evidence that 70 percent of the national budget is allocated to social areas, health, education and food.
In addition to this, Griffiths also met the Vice-Presidents of Planning and Social and Territorial Socialism of Venezuela, Ricardo Menendez and Mervin Maldonado, respectively.
The three dignitaries discussed ways to continue to strengthen protection measures in Venezuela.
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Visit to the hospitals
During the visit, the UN Relief Coordinator also visited Concepcion Palacios Maternity Hospital. Additionally, the Coordinator also met the medical staff, pregnant mothers and newborn babies.
I just finished my visit to Venezuela, where I met with Government officials & key stakeholders. We discussed how to better meet the needs of the most vulnerable and agreed to publish the Humanitarian Response Plan.
I look forward to continue engaging with 🇻🇪 and its people.
— Martin Griffiths (@UNReliefChief) August 2, 2022
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Griffiths heard first-hand experiences of how the humanitarian support had helped strengthen the humanitarian services and reduced maternal mortality.
In #Caracas, I visited the Concepción Palacios Maternity Hospital where I met pregnant women, mothers, babies & medical staff.
One 13-yr-old girl told me: “I was at home & I started to have complications. I was very scared but now I am much calmer after receiving medical care.” pic.twitter.com/2gcWaO3aB6
— Martin Griffiths (@UNReliefChief) August 2, 2022
Griffiths also thanked international donors for their efforts in mobilizing $170 million, so far, this year. Moreover, he called upon the international community for greater solidarity and increased humanitarian funding for Venezuela.
.@UN is working with health authorities to ensure that these women & their babies receive the care they need.
Thanks to donors’ support, @pahowho, @unicefvenezuela, @UNFPA_Ve & partners have been able to improve access to safe water & supplies, and reduce maternal mortality. pic.twitter.com/0he0i0MutU
— Martin Griffiths (@UNReliefChief) August 2, 2022
