Your Excellency Sheikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa,
Minister of Finance and National Economy of the Kingdom of Bahrain,
Presidency of the 33rd ordinary session,
The Council of the League of Arab States at the summit level,
Your Highnesses and Excellencies, Ministers,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am pleased to be here at the summit, marking the first time it's
held in the Kingdom of Bahrain—a land synonymous in the Arab
consciousness with the values of coexistence, kindness, generosity, and
openness.
Allow me to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you, Mr.
President, on the Kingdom's leadership in Arab affairs, chairing the
33rd session of the Council of the League of Arab States at the summit
level.
Mr. President,
Today, we convene amidst challenging circumstances facing the Arab
nation. The relentless aggression against our Palestinian brethren for
over seven months has reached unprecedented levels of moral
depravity—defying all semblance of conscience or ethical conduct, even
by the abysmal standards set by the Israeli occupation over decades.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
In addition to ongoing Arab and international political efforts
aimed at halting this criminal aggression, the recent period has
witnessed substantial Arab aid for Gaza relief. While we understand that
no amount of assistance can fully compensate the people of Gaza for
their suffering, our collective aim remains to alleviate their pain and
aid in their recovery. Despite Israel's continued obstruction and
prevention of aid entry, humanitarian support from Arab countries to
Gaza persists, bridging the gap in essential resources and services.
Continuing in this vein, I present to you today the Emergency Arab
Response Plan, designed to address the economic and humanitarian fallout
of the Israeli aggression. This plan, developed by the State of
Palestine in collaboration with the General Secretariat of the League
and relevant specialised Arab organisations, outlines strategic measures
to mitigate the impact on affected populations.
Mr. President,
In a related initiative, I bring before your esteemed council the
proposal to commemorate Health Martyrs' Day—a solemn occasion to honour
the brave people in the medical field who have made the ultimate
sacrifice. These martyrs, numbering 493, have fallen not only in this
barbaric war but also in past conflicts, disasters, pandemics, and
crises. We take pride in their dedication and selflessness, celebrating
their legacy and recognising their invaluable contributions to serving
the Arab populace.
On another front, the file under discussion today encompasses
several Arab strategies meticulously deliberated by pertinent
committees, specialised ministerial councils, and Arab organisations.
These strategies are poised for submission to Arab leaders, notably
those pertaining to youth, peace, and security, as well as technical and
vocational education and training, and water security. Additionally, a
range of documents addressing social development policy issues are
included, collectively serving as significant additions that bolster
joint Arab endeavours.
Mr. President,
The efficacy of collective Arab action hinges on the efficiency of
Arab performance across various domains. The economic, social, and
developmental spheres are pivotal facets of Arab engagement and
represent indispensable avenues for tangible progress palpable to Arab
citizens. While the achievements thus far may not fully meet
expectations, noteworthy milestones deserve recognition. Of particular
significance are the two agreements on the Arab Common Electricity
Market, alongside the successful fulfillment of key requisites related
to the Greater Arab Free Trade Area and the Arab Customs Union.
The aforementioned developments offer cause for optimism,
suggesting that prevailing challenges can be surmounted with genuine
will and concerted efforts.
Before I conclude my remarks, I extend my heartfelt congratulations
to you, Mr. President, on your esteemed country assuming the leadership
of collective Arab endeavours this year. I wish today's meeting every
success and accomplishment.
Thank you very much, and may God's peace, mercy, and blessings be upon you.
