Irbid, July 15 (Petra) -- A meeting held in Irbid on Wednesday reviewed mechanisms to strengthen humanitarian response and coordination among government, civil society and international organizations working on refugee affairs within the framework of the Irbid Multisector Working Group.

Organized by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the meeting brought together Irbid Assistant Governor for Development Rami Obaidat, Irbid Governorate Council Head Munther Bataineh, and representatives of official institutions, international organizations and local entities.

The event aimed to enhance cooperation among humanitarian partners, promote integration and transparency, reduce duplication of services, address challenges, review implemented programs and projects, and ensure they reach beneficiaries efficiently.

Obaidat said Irbid Governorate places "remarkable" importance on strengthening partnerships between government institutions, international organizations and local entities to improve service delivery and support the implementation of development and humanitarian programs.

Praising UNHCR's role and its partners in supporting refugees and host communities, he noted the governorate's hosting of "large" numbers of refugees has increased population density and demand for various services, creating economic and development challenges that require "stronger" cooperation with supporting organizations.

Obaidat also highlighted Irbid's economic, industrial and agricultural potential, as well as available investment and development opportunities.

Meanwhile, Head of UNHCR's Irbid Field Unit, Osama Alomari reviewed the agency's key programs, humanitarian response plans and partnerships with organizations operating in the sector.

He said current funding challenges require "stronger" coordination among partners to improve the geographic distribution of services, maximize available resources and reduce duplication of assistance provided to registered refugees.

He added that the number of refugees registered with UNHCR in Irbid has declined due to voluntary returns to Syria, reaching 63,519.

The meeting featured presentations by participating entities on developments in services and livelihoods, implemented projects, progress rates and outstanding needs, along with discussions to exchange expertise and enhance coordination among stakeholders.

//Petra// NQ