In First, Israel’s ZAKA Rescue Org Signs Agreement with Counterparts in Dubai

29 November, 2020   |   3 years ago

Jerusalem, 29 November, 2020 (TPS) -- Israel’s ZAKA Search and Rescue organization made history when it became the first Israeli humanitarian organization to sign a collaboration agreement with its counterpart in Dubai.

A signing ceremony was held on Wednesday at the Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development Conference & Exhibition-(DIHAD) headquarters in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

At the meeting, the two parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding that supports future collaborations between the two in the humanitarian field in international crises and disasters, and to provide the necessary support to those affected, regardless of color, race, gender, religion or political opinions.

The two parties also announced the formal acceptance of ZAKA as an active participant in DIHAD 2021, the leading humanitarian aid and development event in the Middle East.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Mr. Paul Wilson, Director General of Planning, Business Development and International Relations at the Holdings Index, which owns the DIHAD organization, and Mr. Yehuda Meshi Zahav, ZAKA Chairman.

ZAKA Chairman, Yehuda Meshi Zahav stated the ZAKA “sees it as a great privilege, within the implementation of the Abraham Accords, to be the first Israeli humanitarian organization to sign an agreement of cooperation with DIHAD.”

“There is no greater expression of peace than volunteer units partnering for mutual humanitarian aid and assistance, as well as professional training in search, rescue and recovery,” he said.

Dr. Abdul Salam Al Madani, Executive Chairman of DIHAD Conference and Exhibition and the International Advisory Council- DISAB said that he is “confident that ZAKA’s participation in DIHAD will be of great benefit due to their immense efforts and expertise in the field of humanitarian work and the training of specialized cadres in situations of disaster.”

“We are proud of their joining the DIHAD Conference and Exhibition as the first institution participating in this humanitarian event from the State of Israel,” he added.

In 2016, ZAKA received official consultative status from the United Nations, giving it the right to participate in official UN discussions.