KAMPALA – The UAE remains committed to the primary principles of the Non-Aligned Movement, striving to strengthen common interests, cooperation, and solidarity in addressing the repercussions and crises faced by member countries, said Khalifa Shaheen Almarar, UAE’s Minister of State.
He made these remarks during a speech in Kampala, Uganda, where he headed the UAE delegation to the Non-Aligned Movement Summit titled “Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Prosperity.” Earlier, on January 19 and 20, 2024, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni inaugurated the summit, attended by heads of states and representatives from member countries.
Almarar reiterated the UAE’s dedication to the movement’s principles and vision, emphasizing the importance of multilateralism and cooperation in addressing challenges and achieving shared objectives guided by international law and the UN Charter.
He stressed the importance of fostering friendly relations between nations, peaceful conflict resolution, and respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence.
Furthermore, Almarar affirmed the UAE’s unwavering stance on the three Emirati islands occupied by Iran, supporting peaceful efforts and initiatives for resolution, including bilateral negotiations or referral to the International Court of Justice, in accordance with international law.
Regarding the situation in the Gaza Strip, Almarar emphasized the UAE’s priority in working towards a ceasefire, safeguarding civilian lives, providing sustainable relief and medical aid, and preventing regional instability.
He highlighted the UAE’s “Gallant Knight 3” initiative and its continuous relief efforts in Gaza, along with diplomatic endeavors to de-escalate the crisis and restore peace.
Almarar also noted the UAE’s successful contributions as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council in adopting resolutions 2712 (2023) and 2720 (2023).
In regard to developments in Sudan, he emphasized that diplomatic actions have consistently aligned with efforts to promote restraint, de-escalation, and conflict resolution.
Furthermore, Almarar mentioned the UAE’s successful hosting of the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28). During the event, the historic ‘UAE Consensus’ was adopted, featuring an unprecedented declaration to address the consequences of climate change.
Additionally, a special fund valued at $30 billion for global climate solutions was announced to bridge the financing gap.
The event also achieved a historic negotiated outcome for the operationalization of Loss and Damage, with a contribution exceeding $550 million. Moreover, it supported the health sector across the African continent with a fund valued at $220 million. The event concluded with significant agreements aimed at advancing climate action. (WAM)
