(LWI) – The United States President Joe Biden visited the LWF-operated Augusta Victoria Hospital (AVH) this Friday morning. The visit was part of a two-day presidential visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories. Biden’s visit to the hospital is the first visit of a sitting US president to the Eastern part of the city.
Crucial role in Palestinian health care system
The US President on this occasion announced a USD 100 million multi-year commitment toward the East Jerusalem Hospital Network (EJHN), of which AVH is a member. He also welcomed a USD 25 million contribution from the United Arab Emirates and encouraged other nations around the region and the world to step up their contribution in support of “the vital work that is being done here."
“I’m honored to be able to see first-hand the service and quality of care you provide the Palestinian people,” Biden said. “These hospitals are the backbone of the Palestinian health care system.”
I’m honored to be able to see first-hand the service and quality of care you provide the Palestinian people. These hospitals are the backbone of the Palestinian health care system.
– US President Joe Biden
Dr Fadi Atrash, CEO of the Augusta Victoria Hospital, in his address to the President called the visit a “courageous statement of support for the Palestinians and a genuine call for peace in the Holy Land”. He mentioned the crucial role of the hospital in the Palestinian health care system, affirming the commitment of The Lutheran World Federation (LWF): “We are willing to continue playing this role to make the lives of our people healthier and for health care to be accessible.”