Statement by High Representative Catherine Ashton following her visit to the Zaatary refugee camp in Jordan

Brussels, 24-10-2012 — /europawire.eu/ — Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice President of the Commission, made the following statement today, following her visit to the Zaatary refugee camp in Jordan:

“I visited the Zaatary refugee camp today to express the EU’s concern for the thousands of people who have had to flee their homes to escape from the horrendous situation in Syria.

I was able to meet courageous men, women and children who are living in difficult conditions and pass on to them a message of support from the European Union.

I also passed on our thanks for the superb work being done by the French and Italian field hospitals in the camp, and the tireless work of the international and local humanitarian agencies.

The EU is ready to help with both humanitarian assistance and long term assistance to those affected by the fighting in Syria. It is a priority of mine to see to it that Syrian refugee children can continue with their schooling.

I am also fully aware of the difficult situation in Jordan following the influx of Syrian refugees, and I pay tribute to the vital role the Jordanian government has played in providing support and hospitality to them.”

FOR FURTHER DETAILS:
Michael Mann +32 498 999 780 – +32 2 299 97 80 – Michael.Mann@eeas.europa.eu
Maja Kocijancic +32 498 984 425 – +32 2 298 65 70 – Maja.Kocijancic@ec.europa.eu
Sebastien Brabant +32 460 75 09 98 – Sebastien.Brabant@ec.europa.eu
COMM-SPP-HRVP-ASHTO1@ec.europa.eu
www.eeas.europa.eu