Arab Summit a beacon of hope

TDT | Manama     

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

In a gesture of unparalleled unity, the Kingdom of Bahrain generously offers its hospitality to Arab leaders for a summit of critical significance. At this pivotal juncture, faced with challenges to our shared identity, the summit stands as a symbol of hope.

The streets of the Kingdom are adorned with flags representing Arab nations, portraits of Arab leaders, and banners that warmly welcome the participants, all in anticipation of the 33rd Arab Summit taking place on Thursday, May 16. The Summit, scheduled to be presided over by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. This event coincides with two momentous occasions as Bahrain celebrates the silver jubilee of the accession of

HM King Hamad and the 80th anniversary of the establishment of the Arab league next year. Under the wise guidance of His Majesty, the Summit aims to forge a unified path forward for the Arab world. HM the King, a respected diplomat, will lead discussions on critical issues impacting the region, including security, stability, and economic prosperity.

Significant milestone

This Summit marks a significant milestone for Bahrain, a nation with a rich history of cultural and religious diversity. Bahrain’s commitment to fostering unity among Arab nations is evident in its leadership role, with His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, playing a key role in facilitating dialogue and cooperation.

The agenda of the Summit reflects the pressing imperative for united action.

The persistent strife in Gaza, the economic tribulations, and the spectres threatening the equilibrium of the region necessitate urgent and decisive action.

The assembly of leaders will engage in strategic discourse to confront these challenges, laying the groundwork for a future that is both secure and prosperous for the Arab nations.

Continuous progress

HRH Prince Salman has emphasised the importance of continuous progress across all sectors, particularly in the economic and social spheres.

This aligns with the aspirations of progressive Arab leaders, who seek to improve the lives of their citizens and build a brighter future for the region.

H.E. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, the undersecretary for international affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed his viewpoint, stating, “The convening of the Arab summit comes at a crucial juncture when the foundations of our national states and their legitimate institutions are under threat and their effectiveness is undermined by internal conflicts.

Furthermore, the proliferation of armed militias poses significant dangers.

“These challenges not only jeopardise our sovereignty but also highlight the intrusion of foreign interference in Arab affairs, which flagrantly contradicts universally accepted international conventions, ranging from counterterrorism efforts to regional security concerns.”

Renaissance and unity

He further emphasised, “Our authentic Arab identity and ancient traditions serve as the bedrock of our renaissance and unity.”

He fervently asserts that the Bahrain Summit conveys an indomitable message of peace and solidarity, radiating hope and optimism among Arab peoples who ardently anticipate concrete and decisive decisions that unify collective efforts under the banner of Arabism.

H.E. Dr. Lulwa Budalamah, a distinguished scholar, chronicles His Majesty’s dedication to unity in her latest book, emphasising his stance on the Palestinian cause as central to the Arab world. His Majesty has consistently supported initiatives for Yemen and upheld the United Arab Emirates’ territorial rights.

Resounding success

His Excellency Dr. Mustafa Benkhi, Moroccan Ambassador to the Kingdom, affirms the Kingdom’s ability, under the leadership of HM the King, to make the upcoming Arab Summit a resounding success in terms of organisation and outcomes and serve as a distinguished milestone for a new phase of Arab action, a joint effort that safeguards the issues and interests of the Arab nation and produces strategic initiatives that contribute to building an integrated Arab partnership.

He stated, “The Kingdom of Morocco has always been committed to giving the issues of development and Arab integration the attention they deserve in order to preserve the unity of the Arab ranks and respect the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national unity of Arab countries.”

Adel Al Asoomi, Speaker of the Arab Parliament, affirms, “One of the enduring principles of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s foreign policy is non-interference in the internal affairs of countries.

It consistently supports joint Arab action, which will ensure the summit will be calm and exceptional.”