Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary General Dr Nayef Al Hajraf said the Gulf countries are keen on providing relief and assistance to refugees in accordance with the humanitarian principles stated in international conventions and treaties. The assistance is based on the instructions of the Islamic religion to devote the spirit of fraternity, compassion and tolerance to help all the needy and distressed. Speaking on World Refugee Day, Al Hajraf said that the GCC countries spare no effort to aid refugees and provide health, food, social care and relief for them in cooperation with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Al Hajraf expressed concern over the noticeable increase in the number of refugees around the world and stressed the GCC"s support to alleviate their suffering. He also highlighted the GCC"s hope that peace will prevail across the world and refugees can return to their homelands. According to UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, the number of people forced to flee conflict, violence, human rights violations and persecution has now surpassed 100 million for the first time on record. The World Refugee Day is an occasion to raise awareness on the unique health needs of refugees and people on the move, and the challenges they may face in accessing healthcare during their journeys and in the host country, the World Health Organization said. — SG