No: 234, 19 August 2015

August 19^th was declared as World Humanitarian Day by the United Nations General Assembly in memory of 22 humanitarian aid workers who lost their lives as a result of the bomb attack perpetrated against the UN Headquarters in Baghdad on 19 August 2003.

Turkey, which has become one of the largest donor countries of the world in the field of humanitarian assistance, acknowledges with gratitude the sacrifices of humanitarian aid workers who are serving worldwide and commemorates with respect, those who have lost their lives in the course of their duties.

Humanitarian crises arising from diverse causes, such as natural disasters, epidemics and conflicts remain high on the international agenda. Turkey considers helping those people in need in times of such crises as a humanitarian responsibility as well as an element of key importance for the stability of international community.

Turkey strongly condemns the attacks against humanitarian aid workers who are serving to alleviate the outcomes of these crises. In view of the fact that the root cause of the majority of current humanitarian crises are conflicts, protection of humanitarian aid workers is of critical importance.

The first-ever World Humanitarian Summit which will be held in Turkey on 23-24 May 2016, will constitute a milestone to transform the international community in displaying stronger solidarity and taking action in a more inclusive and efficient manner in the face of humanitarian crises.