S/PV.9343 Security Council

In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representative of Egypt to participate in this meeting. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the following briefers to participate in this meeting: Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs; His Excellency Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States; and Ms. Omnia El Omrani, Youth Envoy for the President of the twenty-seventh Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I wish to draw the attention of Council members to document S/2023/407, which contains the text of a letter dated 5 June 2023 from the Permanent Representative of the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations addressed to the Secretary-General, transmitting a concept note on the item under consideration. I now give the floor to Ms. DiCarlo. Ms. DiCarlo: I am pleased to have the opportunity to address the Security Council on our cooperation with the League of Arab States. And I am honoured to be speaking alongside His Excellency Mr. Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League. In recent years, multilateralism has come under great strain. Trust in institutions and processes has been sorely tested, most recently by the uneven response to the coronavirus disease crisis. Defiance of international law and the norms that bind us is making international and regional cooperation to maintain peace and security ever more difficult. In such a fraught context, it is heartening that the relationship between the United Nations and the League remains robust. As the Secretary-General reminds us in his report (S/2023/331), cooperation with the League of Arab States, consistent with Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations, serves to enhance collective security. In the report, the Secretary-General reviews the areas of cooperation and engagement of our two organizations across the region. Today I would like to highlight the issues of common concern and some additional developments since the report was prepared. With regard to the Sudan, where fighting is devastating the lives of civilians and destroying the country’s future, the Jeddah agreement brokered on 20 May by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States gave rise to much hope. Unfortunately, the parties have failed to implement it. Furthermore, the Sudanese Armed Forces announced the suspension of their participation in the talks, citing the Rapid Support Forces’ violations of the ceasefire. It is critical that the parties remain committed to the ceasefire agreement, but that will not be enough. We need a permanent cessation of hostilities and eventually a resumption of the political process. In that regard, we commend the League, the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and the Sudan’s other partners for their efforts to support peace in the Sudan. It is essential to coordinate our various efforts if we are to maximize our impact in support of the Sudanese people. The role of the region will be key to ending the conflict. The situation in the occupied Palestinian territory keeps deteriorating. Last month we witnessed yet another devastating escalation in Gaza, with tragic loss of life on both sides and further damage to fragile infrastructure. Tensions also continue to simmer, and indeed to regularly boil over, in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Unilateral actions, including settlement expansion and violence against Israeli and Palestinian civilians, continue to undermine our collective efforts to realize a two-State solution. The acute financial and institutional challenges facing the Palestinian Authority and the lack of progress on advancing intra-Palestinian unity and the holding of general elections must all be addressed. I also want to echo the Secretary-General’s call to ensure full funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East. The Agency plays a critical role for Palestinian refugees and regional stability. The World Food Programme also needs immediate financial support to continue vital assistance to Palestinians. We share a common goal with the League, which is a two-State solution that realizes the legitimate national aspirations of Palestinians and Israelis, in line with international law and United Nations resolutions. That is the only path to sustainable peace between the two peoples. We followed the outcomes of the 19 May League of Arab States Summit closely, noting that many of the resolutions that were adopted highlighted issues of mutual interest, as well as our ongoing cooperation in numerous areas. Among other decisions, we welcomed the Summit’s resolution on developments in Libya, which is a demonstration of the League’s engagement on the issue, including as a member of the Libya quartet, together with the United Nations. We especially commend the League’s expression of support for the ongoing United Nations efforts to find a political solution for Libya. In the coming weeks and months, the international community will need to remain united behind ensuring the holding of elections in Libya by the end of 2023. Libyans want to elect their leaders, restore legitimacy to their institutions and halt the cycle of endless political transitions. They have already had to wait too long to do so. With regard to Syria, we take note of Arab meetings in Amman and Jeddah and the resolution adopted at the Jeddah summit, which reflected the importance of resolution 2254 (2015), the only internationally agreed road map for resolving the Syrian conflict. If the renewed regional attention on Syria is translated into action, we could see momentum build towards a negotiated political settlement of the conflict. Addressing the fate of the detained, the disappeared and the missing is essential to moving closer to sustainable peace. We call on all parties to take meaningful steps to that end. We urge Member States to support the establishment of an institution dedicated to the missing. Regarding refugees, protection concerns need to be addressed more visibly, transparently and systematically. We will continue to work with all, as the United Nations facilitates a Syrian-led, Syrian-owned political process, but we cannot do that alone. We need the support of all key actors, in particular the member States of the League. The Arab region faces a range of urgent challenges related to peace and security, development and climate change. But the region also possesses immense potential, particularly in its young women and men. Sixty per cent of the population is under 30 years old. Together, we continue to encourage Member States to engage with and invest in Arab youth. That is not only the right thing to do, but it is also the sensible thing to do for the region’s future. Earlier this year, we supported the League in the development of an Arab regional youth, peace and security strategy. That involved a consultative process that enabled the voices of more than 300 young people from 13 countries to be heard, achieving a level of outreach and public engagement unimaginable not so long ago. We are now looking at the ways the United Nations can support the implementation of that strategy. We encourage the League’s member States to use it to guide regional, subregional and national implementation of resolution 2250 (2015) and other relevant aspects of the youth, peace and security agenda. As highlighted in the Secretary-General’s report, we also continue supporting, through the United Nations Liaison Office to the League of Arab States and in close cooperation with UN-Women, the League’s efforts to implement resolution 1325 (2000), the Arab Women Mediators Network and the action plan for women and peace and security in the Arab region. Those are but a few examples of how our ongoing cooperation deepens and expands to address new and emerging priorities, including through the United Nations Liaison Office to the League of Arab States. The Office continues to strengthen our communication and cooperation, while facilitating regular contact between United Nations special envoys and the League. And, as always, we stand ready to work closely with the League on various mediation efforts in the region, through joint, coordinated and focused action. Next year, we will organize our sixteenth United Nations — League of Arab States General Cooperation Meeting to review our biennial framework, take stock of our accomplishments and open new avenues for cooperation. That meeting will bring together all departments, agencies, funds and programmes of our two systems, acknowledging the significance of the peace-humanitarian-development nexus. We are committed to meeting our common challenges and seizing the opportunities before us, in the Arab world and beyond. Together, we can achieve what neither organization could achieve on its own.

I thank Ms. DiCarlo for her briefing. I now give the floor to Mr. Aboul Gheit.

At the outset, I would like to sincerely congratulate the United Arab Emirates for presiding over the Security Council this month. I would also like to express my deep appreciation for its role in its capacity as the Arab member of the Council. In particular, I would like to commend the initiative taken by the United Arab Emirates to hold this meeting, for the second time under its presidency, to foster relations between the League of Arab States and the Security Council. Relations between the Security Council and the Arab issues date back to the inception of the United Nations, especially as regards the Palestinian question, which is critically important to the League of Arab States. However, regrettably, the past decade, in particular, has witnessed numerous highly complex issues and dossiers in the Arab region, which found their way to the Security Council to be resolved. It is undeniable that the world is now at a critical juncture as, for the first time in decades, we are on the brink of a nuclear confrontation, not to mention increasing tensions among the major Powers, ensuing polarization and heightened international tensions. Meanwhile, synergy and collective action have been reduced in order to confront the conventional and unconventional challenges faced by humankind, in particular counter-terrorism, climate change and the disruption caused by technological advances, especially those related to the development and unrestricted use thus far of artificial intelligence, in addition to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and other weapons. The prevailing tensions in the international order diminish any opportunities to address regional conflicts. It also comes at the expense of global attention that should be paid to humanitarian and relief aid that goes to regions that suffer escalating crises. That is why I call upon all Council members to pay more attention to conflict zones across the world and not let the Ukrainian crisis or any other crisis affect overall international commitments related specifically to the humanitarian issues in regions that experience acute humanitarian crises. Attention should be given to the millions of refugees and displaced people in our region, namely, in Yemen, Syria, Somalia and the Sudan. Palestinians in the occupied territories suffer the impact of long-lasting occupation, along with heightened oppression and violence on the part of the Israeli Government. With its positions and practices and the extreme ideologies espoused by some of its figures, the Israeli Government reflects an unprecedented shift to the right. It is a Government that chooses annexation and settlement-building instead of peace. Every single day, that Government implements policies and practices that are completely against international law, thereby undermining any future prospects for the two- State solution. The most dangerous thing that the Palestinian people suffer from today is a deep sentiment of despair as they have lost all hope in the ability of the international community to advance the political settlement process. Over the past few months, we have witnessed an exceptional increase in violence. Regrettably, the desire to please extremists and elements of the extreme right within the Israeli society compels the current Government to act in a way that is very concerning to all of us because one provocative incident, such as those that have occurred repeatedly under the sponsorship of some Israeli ministers, whereby settlers have stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque, could lead to a serious of reactions with unknown results. Therefore, I call from this rostrum for reconsidering the two-State solution, as that is the only path, as per the League of Arab States — I repeat, the only path — to lasting peace. That solution was agreed to by the international community and established in the resolutions adopted by the Security Council and the General Assembly. That solution is also at the core of the Arab Peace Initiative, to which the League of Arab States still adheres. It is the only way to achieving regional peace on the basis of an end to the occupation and the establishment of an independent Palestinian State, along 4 June 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. For nearly two months, the Sudan has been witnessing a situation that is unprecedented in its contemporary history, as Khartoum, the capital, has become a battlefield between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, leading to hundreds of civilians killed and thousands injured, thousands of families fleeing, the widespread destruction of State institutions and infrastructure, and the looting of public and private property on an unprecedented scale. The League of Arab States acknowledges the seriousness of the situation for both the Sudan and its neighbours. We are actively working in coordination with regional organizations, especially the African Union, towards achieving the common goal, which is a total cessation of military operations, which would allow some stability conducive to resuming political action that meets the aspirations of the Sudanese people. We all bear in mind the importance of maintaining the unity and stability of the Sudan without threatening its territorial integrity or weakening the unity of its national institutions. We, as Arabs, hope that the return of Syria to the League of Arab States will serve as an important step towards addressing its protracted crisis. Perhaps that step will prompt a more active and influential Arab role in achieving an indispensable political settlement in Syria in accordance with resolution 2254 (2015). A political solution continues to be the main means for restoring stability to Syria and preserving its sovereignty over the entirety of its national territory. The protracted crisis in Syria has resulted in many negative aspects, including millions of Syrians becoming refugees and displaced persons, most of them living in extremely difficult conditions. Their presence in some host countries has culminated in a pressing problem that should not be ignored. We hope that the neighbouring countries, especially the Arab countries, in cooperation with the Government of Syria, will be able to reach a solution for the voluntary and dignified return of the Syrian refugees by creating an environment conducive to that return. In that regard, we underscore the important role of the international community at the next stage. In Yemen, the truce that was achieved, despite the Houthis’ insistence on refusing to formally extend it, has already contributed to de-escalating the conflict. Positive signs such as the mutual release of prisoners have also contributed to de-escalation. However, the situation in Yemen is still tragic, after nearly a decade of civil conflict, and we all know that the country is suffering from the gravest humanitarian crisis in our world today, with millions of its people in need of humanitarian assistance. Nevertheless, a political solution to the crisis continues to be achievable, especially if sufficient pressure is exerted on the Houthi side. The agreement that was signed between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Iran in March also opens important new prospects that should be optimized in order to achieve the required de-escalation and maybe even a settlement in Yemen. Fostering regional security in the Arab region, especially in the Arab Gulf region and Bab Al-Mandab, requires, in the first place, a commitment by all the parties to refrain from using or threatening to use force and a commitment to one of the basic principles on which the international order and the Charter of the United Nations is based, which is non-interference in the internal affairs of States. In Libya, we support the efforts made to reach comprehensive reconciliation in the country, and we hope that all the parties will overcome the obstacles that prevent the holding of elections, given that elections constitute the only path towards a sustainable solution to the ongoing crisis in the country and the very serious divisions within Libyan institutions. We also hope that the positive developments in the region will positively reflect on Libya. We call on the international community to continue to accompany the Libyans until they achieve security. We commend the efforts of all Arab countries that sincerely aim to help their Libyan brothers to overcome the current impasse. The League of Arab States believes that engaging young people in peace efforts and decision-making bolsters the sustainability of peace and development efforts, prevents conflicts and resolve them. In that regard, resolution 2250 (2015) is of paramount importance, as it coincides with the priorities and specific concerns of the Arab States, especially in the light of the current geopolitical situation, the impact of protracted conflicts in some Arab countries and the emergence of the phenomenon of extremism and violence globally. In continuation of the joint efforts between the League of Arab States and the Security Council to support the participation of Arab women in the various stages of peace achievement, we launched the Arab Women Peace Mediators Network, which serves as a serious and ambitious initiative to translate and support the efforts made by Arab women in peace mediation at the national, regional and international levels and enable experienced Arab women to participate in conflict prevention and the peaceful settlement of disputes. Despite the enormous scale of challenges facing the region, the League of Arab States continues to be an active and key partner in multilateral action in the efforts to maintain international peace and security. We have synergized our common efforts to address a number of global challenges, including health crises, armed conflicts, terrorism and violent extremism, food security, water security, desertification, climate change, disaster risk reduction and other serious challenges. In that regard, I would like to point out that working on all those fronts requires us to develop the strategic basis for cooperation, including sectorial cooperation, between our two organizations, the League of Arab States and the United Nations, to improve the standard of living of the Arab peoples and mitigate the effects of those challenges on them. In conclusion, I would like to reiterate the importance that the League of Arab States attaches to its strategic partnership with the Security Council. We are certain of the importance of cooperation between our two organizations to support peace and security in the Middle East in order to transform it from a region of conflicts and crises into one of security and stability whose peoples enjoy the peace, prosperity and well- being they deserve.

I thank Mr. Aboul Gheit for his briefing. I now give the floor to Ms. El Omrani.

At the outset, allow me to thank you, Mr. President, for giving me the opportunity to represent the perspective of young people from the Arab region during this high- level meeting on enhancing cooperation between the Security Council and the League of Arab States to promote regional stability. More than 60 per cent of the population in the Arab region are young people under the age of 30, making it one of the youngest regions in the world. It is also considered one of the regions most affected by humanitarian, environmental and health crises and their impact on various aspects of life, the quality of education and the provision of decent work, as well as the increase in the unemployment rate, especially among young people, which has exceeded 28 per cent in the Arab region. Those challenges further exacerbate the difficulties faced by the majority of Arab young people. Unequal access to information, education, decent work and health care has intensified the social, economic and health impacts of current geopolitical challenges and ongoing conflicts on young people. The safety and harmony of some societies in our Arab region are threatened by the spread of fanaticism and hate speech. The negative effects of climate change, conflict and economic pressures have also increased mistrust and uncertainty about the future among young people. As the Arab region is one of those in the world most affected by climate change and conflicts, approximately 54 million people in the region are suffering from acute food insecurity. Similarly, one in every five children lacks access to safe drinking water, which leads to further diseases and vulnerability in the Arab region, which is currently facing water scarcity. Additionally, emerging infectious diseases such as the coronavirus disease are expected to be more prevalent and severe owing to the rising temperatures. Climate change is also affecting the mental health of young people owing to the extreme uncertainty associated with that phenomenon. Moreover, some reports indicate that the mass displacement of millions of people in the region is caused by either climate change, armed conflict or a combination of both. Nevertheless, young people are striving to confront such global challenges with action, innovation and perseverance, to build a world of peace and security for future generations. Recognizing the magnitude of the challenges faced by young people, Egypt has set an example to follow by taking tangible measures to listen to and empower young people, harnessing their role and emphasizing the importance of intergenerational equality. In that context, we note the appointment of the first official Youth Envoy for the twenty-seventh Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 27). I was honoured to hold that position, which marks a decisive turning point for meaningful and effective youth engagement at the highest levels in decision-making with regard to climate change. Egypt has also established the first specialized youth office affiliated with the United Nations, which was approved last year. The new youth office can build capacities and support the establishment of a strategy for youth and peace and security in Arab countries. Egypt also participated in the elaboration of the Human Rights Council resolution on youth and human rights. Egypt also hosted four sessions of the World Youth Forum — one of the largest global platforms for youth dialogue. Those examples, among others, illustrate the active commitment to holding meaningful dialogue with and ensuring the inclusion and participation of youth perspectives in the planning and implementation of public policies. At the regional level, the League of Arab States is working to empower young people to harness their potential in implementing the youth, peace and security agenda, in addition to addressing the common challenges facing young people in the Arab region. Furthermore, the Arab League plays a fundamental role in promoting further comprehensive youth peacebuilding processes and implementing them at the country level by investing in youth, which is synonymous with investing in peace. (spoke in English) As a young Arab woman, I am here to evoke a sense of urgency to address the systemic inequalities and intergenerational injustices — something that my generation is desperately calling for. Young people are more aware than ever of the significance of further participation and its relevance to them, their societies and their futures. As we explore ways here today to expand the joint efforts between the United Nations and the League of Arab States to promote peace and security, I would like to underline two specific aspects. First, we must reorient institutional structures to include young people, not as add-ons, but as natural stakeholders in formal roles such as youth advisory groups and youth councils. Young people are a diverse constituency who have uniquely critical perspectives and skills that should not be marginalized. Peace and security policies should be grounded in the needs and insights of the most vulnerable youth, including young women, refugees and internally displaced youth. That requires the establishment of sustainable and intergenerational mechanisms, not only for the participation of youth, but also for the emergence of youth-led solutions and implementation pathways, as currently demonstrated by the United Arab Emirates’ COP 28 presidency and the Climate Champions Youth Fellowship. Secondly, innovative investments and accountability systems are essential to provide equitable and accessible opportunities for young people to contribute to shaping and implementing the regional strategy for peace and security. The United Nations can play an integral role in advancing transparency and inclusivity by urging Member States and institutions to deliver for and with young people. That is the only way in which to foster trust and elevate youth agency across all fronts of peacebuilding, governance consolidation and social inclusion. That entails consulting youth- led organizations and groups and embedding their proposals in the design, implementation and evaluation of all matters related to peace and security. Those calls for action represent pressing needs, commonly raised by young people in the region, to respond to the unprecedented challenges of the world we live in today. The young people of the region know that they are entitled to a better future. We must work together across silos and across generations to build the stable and secure future that young people want and deserve.

I thank Ms. El Omrani for her briefing. I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the Minister of State of the United Arab Emirates. I would like to begin by thanking His Excellency Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, for his briefing and his significant role in promoting cooperation between the Arab League and other regional and international organizations, most notably the United Nations. I also thank Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, for her valuable briefing and welcome the report issued by the Secretary- General (S/2023/331) in line with the presidential statement adopted by the Security Council during the United Arab Emirates’ previous presidency, in March 2022 (S/PRST/2022/1). I also wish to sincerely thank Ms. Omnia El Omrani for her insightful presentation, which highlighted the aspirations of Arab youth — a topic of great importance to the United Arab Emirates. In the light of today’s briefings and the growing cooperation between the two organizations, I would like to focus my statement on the most prominent aspects that require an increase in efforts between the United Nations and the League of Arab States in the coming period. Since the Council last convened on this topic (see S/PV.9001), the Arab region has witnessed a rise in diplomatic and political activities aimed at overcoming conflict, settling differences and embarking on a new era of stability and prosperity. Today our Arab countries are moving towards greater rapprochement and integration throughout the region, while strengthening cooperation with partners in the East and West. They have also made valiant efforts towards improving relations with neighbouring States in the region and making important mediation efforts to resolve ongoing conflicts in Palestine, Yemen, the Sudan and Libya. In that context, we express our appreciation in particular for the efforts led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, along with the United States, to facilitate talks between the Sudanese parties. Moreover, the reinstatement of Syria in the League of Arab States has provided an opportunity for strengthening the Arab role in resolving the Syrian crisis while also complementing the role of the United Nations in that regard. In the light of those advancements, we hope that the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, will persist in supporting and encouraging those Arab initiatives and endeavours to build a robust and balanced regional order that achieves stability and lays a solid foundation for comprehensive development in the region. Those positive and rapid changes pave the way for significant breakthroughs in a number of conflicts through practical and realistic solutions. We therefore call for strengthening the institutional relationship between the United Nations and the League of Arab States in order to confront those shared challenges. That includes enhancing the work of the Liaison Office to the League of Arab States, which plays an important role in this domain. We also applaud the existing collaboration between the Secretary-Generals of the United Nations and the League of Arab States on the Sudan and Libya files, and we encourage expanding that cooperation to encompass other regional issues. It is also critical for the two organizations to strengthen their cooperation and coordination in the area of counter-terrorism. In that regard, we welcome the new plan for implementing the Arab counter- terrorism strategy, which aligns with the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. We also welcome the exchange of visits and information among the specialized agencies of the two organizations, and we call for continuing those efforts. The Security Council’s mandate on conflict prevention requires us to foster the values of tolerance and human fraternity as well as to address the drivers of conflict, including hate speech, racism, intolerance and extremism. We will delve further into this topic next week when the Council holds a high-level briefing on human fraternity for the first time, which will illustrate the role that those values play in achieving global peace. It is also important to continue supporting efforts to empower and protect women and girls across the Arab region and across all fields. Women are active contributors to the region’s development, and the United Arab Emirates has supported several initiatives aimed at achieving that goal at both the regional and international levels. For instance, in December 2022, the United Arab Emirates hosted the official launching of the Arab Declaration to Combat All Forms of Violence against Women and Girls. We also continue our efforts at the national level to empower women, who now occupy distinctive status across various fields. Given that half of the Arab region’s population is under the age of 25, the United Arab Emirates supported the establishment of the Arab Youth Center, which seeks to foster the capabilities of Arab youth, while promoting innovation and creativity and, in turn, nurturing a new generation of young Arab leaders. In that context, we welcome the development of an Arab regional strategy on youth, peace and security. The growing number of urgent humanitarian crises underscores the pressing need for expanding regional and international cooperation and coordination, as well as enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in aid provision. This approach will help overcome challenges that arise from inadequate coordination in humanitarian response, and ensure benefiting from past experiences, such as the recent earthquake that impacted Syria and Türkiye. Arab perspectives are crucial not only when dealing with Arab crises but also when confronting common global challenges, including the adverse impacts of climate change, which has become an existential threat to our world today, including our region, which is grappling with severe droughts. This reality has enhanced the commitment of Arab countries to actively participate in international efforts to address climate change. As my country prepares to host the twenty-eighth Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, we look forward to cooperating with all our partners to make tangible strides towards ambitious climate action, including through a holistic approach that focuses on practical solutions and builds on the work done at the twenty-seventh Conference of the Parties, held in Egypt. In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that the United Arab Emirates will continue to play its active role throughout its Council membership and beyond in order to support the Council’s work in reaching decisions that can contribute to resolving outstanding issues. The positive results from the efforts of the League of Arab States and the United Nations in recent years are a testament to the ability to make tangible progress through joint cooperation. However, we must also redouble our efforts to achieve peace and stability, support development and foster economic prosperity in the Arab region and beyond. I resume my functions as President of the Council. I shall now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements.

I thank the United Arab Emirates for the initiative of convening this meeting and welcome His Excellency Mr. Khalifa Shaheen Almarar, Minister of State of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, to preside over this meeting in New York. I also thank Under-Secretary-General DiCarlo, Secretary-General Aboul Gheit and Ms. El Omrani for their briefings. I welcome the participation in this meeting of the Permanent Representative of Egypt, who spoke on behalf of the Group of Arab States. Recently, the Middle East has seen a series of positive changes, with unity, cooperation, dialogue and reconciliation gaining strong momentum. That has injected new hope and positive energy into the world, which has been mired in turmoil. Saudi Arabia and Iran announced the restoration of diplomatic relations through the Beijing dialogue, giving rise to a wave of reconciliation in the Middle East. A historic easing of relations has been achieved among multiple countries, and several regional hot-button issues have seen positive progress. After a 12-year hiatus, Syria has returned to the League of Arab States, thereby making the Arab League family whole once again. Those examples fully demonstrates that breaking away from bloc confrontation, easing tension and seeking peaceful development are the popular aspirations and calls of the countries and peoples in the region. China appreciates the Arab League and the countries of the region for their unremitting efforts in that regard. The international community should respond to the trend by playing a constructive role in supporting the efforts of Arab countries to independently explore development paths that are in line with their national conditions and determine their own future. All parties should support the Arab League’s efforts to play a greater role in regional and international affairs, thereby leading the Arab world to bolster strategic independence, jointly forge peace and stability, accelerate development and revitalization and achieve unity and self-sufficiency. The United Nations should further deepen cooperation with the Arab League, in accordance with the spirit of Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations. The relevant envoys and the special representatives of the Secretary-General should strengthen communication and coordination with the Arab League in order to form a united front and enhance synergy. The Security Council should listen more to the views of the Arab League and the countries of the region and support regional solutions to regional disputes. The Palestinian issue has always been at the core of the Middle Eastern issue. The recurring tensions between Palestine and Israel clearly demonstrate that the long-standing stalemate in the peace process is unsustainable. Piecemeal crisis management is difficult to sustain, and a comprehensive and just solution is irreplaceable. China appreciates the Arab League and its members for their just position on the Palestinian issue and supports their continued leadership role in addressing the Palestinian issue. The United Nations and the Security Council should strengthen coordination with the Arab League, on the basis of all relevant United Nations resolutions, the Arab Peace Initiative and other international consensus. We must promote the two-State solution with a greater sense of urgency and more robust measures in order to help the Palestinian people realize their dream of an independent State as soon as possible. Syria’s return to the Arab League is not only a new driving force for Arab unity and its self-sufficiency, but also a new opportunity for a political solution to the Syrian crisis. We hope that the relevant parties will seize this opportunity, strengthen dialogue, actively cooperate with the efforts of United Nations Special Envoy Pedersen, gradually build mutual trust and promote speedy progress in the political process in order to achieve a comprehensive solution to the Syrian issue at an early date. The political process in Yemen is maintaining its positive momentum, and all parties have remained in close communication regarding the resumption of a ceasefire, demonstrating prospects for a political and negotiated resolution of the conflict. We appreciate the proactive efforts made by countries of the region, including Saudi Arabia and Oman, to alleviate the situation in Yemen and achieve a permanent ceasefire. We hope that all parties will prioritize the interests of the Yemeni people, intensify dialogue and consultations, set reasonable expectations, demonstrate appropriate flexibility and expedite visible progress in the political process in the country. The friendship between China and Arab countries has withstood the test of time. We have stood together in national liberation struggles, achieved win-win cooperation in the wave of global economic globalization, and upheld principle and righteousness amid the ups and downs in international affairs. From this has grown a spirit of mutual assistance, equality, shared benefit and cultural exchange between China and the Arab nations. At the end of last year, President Xi Jinping attended the inaugural China-Arab States summit and the first the China-Gulf Cooperation Council summit where he held bilateral meetings with leaders from approximately 20 Arab countries. Both China and Arab countries have issued documents, including the Riyadh declaration of the inaugural China-Arab States summit, which consolidated the strategic consensus on the development of bilateral relations on major regional and international issues. Cooperation between the two sides in such areas as the Belt and Road Initiative, energy, food, investment and green development has further deepened. We will continue to stand together with Arab countries, weather the storm together and promote the deepening and solidification of China and Arab relationship with a shared future for the new era. We are committed to making positive contributions to the lasting peace, unity, universal security and common prosperity of the Middle Eastern region.

I am grateful to Under-Secretary-General DiCarlo, Secretary-General Aboul Gheit and Ms. El Omrani for their briefings. As we heard today, the League of Arab States has an important role to play in preventing and resolving security and humanitarian challenges in its region, and Ms. El Omrani made a powerful case on the importance of involving youth, including women and girls, in addressing these challenges. In a year that has seen the eruption of new conflicts and the entrenchment of old ones, the constructive engagement of all actors, including regional bodies, is more urgent than ever. How, therefore, can we deepen that cooperation? First, the Arab League can play a key role in resolving conflicts in its region, for example, the tragedy unfolding in the Sudan, where the Sudanese people’s hopes for democracy and freedom have been set back again. We look to the partnership between the League of Arab States, the United Nations, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and African Union to support a permanent ceasefire and a return to democratic transition. Another example is Syria, where the conflict has displaced millions and killed hundreds of thousands. We share the objectives of our Arab partners: a stable Syria that no longer exports instability to the region. Syria’s readmission to the Arab League must be used to press for Al-Assad to change his behaviour, including clamping down on the drug Captagon, and putting in place the conditions for refugees to return safely, voluntarily and in a dignified manner. We are clear that the United Nations-led political process remains the only route to lasting and sustainable peace. The United Kingdom also works closely with Arab partners to counter Iran’s destabilizing activity throughout the region. This includes our maritime presence in the Gulf, which twice last year intercepted speedboats laden with surface-to-air missiles and engines for cruise missiles. On the Middle East peace process, the United Kingdom supports efforts, including by Jordan and Egypt, to de-escalate tensions and maintain calm in Jerusalem and the West Bank. Talks between Israel and the Palestinian Authority must lay the groundwork for a future political process that can deliver a two- State solution. Russia’s war of aggression on Ukraine has led to a devastating impact on food and energy prices in Arab countries. President Zelenskyy’s address to Arab States in Riyadh last month sent a powerful signal on the global impact of this illegal war. We continue to work with partners in the region towards bringing this illegal war to an end. Finally, with such a young population in the Arab region, it is right that we look to the security challenges of the future. We welcome the United Arab Emirates presidency of the twenty-eighth session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, and we look forward to discussing the impact of climate on security in the Security Council next week. We hope that all Council members treat the issue of climate security with the seriousness it deserves. Regional leadership and ownership of solutions to conflicts caused or exacerbated by climate change are increasingly important.

I thank His Excellency Mr. Khalifa Shaheen Almarar, Minister of State at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of the United Arab Emirates, for convening today’s meeting. I also thank Under-Secretary-General DiCarlo, Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit, and Ms. Omnia El Omrani for their valuable briefings. I recall that last year, under the previous United Arab Emirates presidency of the Security Council, the Council adopted a presidential statement that welcomed the strong cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States and reiterated the Council’s intention to deepen this relationship (S/PRST/2022/1). Japan welcomes the initiative by the United Arab Emirates to renew the Council’s consideration of this important topic. Prime Minister Kishida visited the Arab League Secretariat in Cairo in April and exchanged views with its Secretary-General, His Excellency Mr. Aboul Gheit, on the regional and international situations and discussed how to strengthen the international order based on the rule of law. Global challenges are becoming increasingly interrelated, as shown by the Russian aggression against Ukraine, which has affected not just Europe but the entire world. In many countries, including in the Middle East, soaring food and fuel prices have struck the lives of the vulnerable the hardest. In this time of great geopolitical upheaval, there has never been a better moment to consolidate the United Nations-Arab League partnership under Chapter VIII of the Charter. In last year’s presidential statement, the Security Council recognized the importance of cooperation in such areas as counter-terrorism, poverty eradication, maritime security, conflict prevention, peacekeeping and peacebuilding. While regional organizations are best equipped to effectively address regional challenges, there are many complex issues that cannot be resolved by such entities alone. For example, the humanitarian situation in Syria continues to deteriorate, making the upcoming renewal of the cross-border aid mechanism more vital than ever. In the case of Yemen, the United Nations plays a crucial role in resolving the issue of the FSO SAFER oil tanker off the coast, which could prevent an environmental catastrophe in the Red Sea and beyond. Japan will continue to deepen its relations with the Arab world. We are committed to the Middle East not only through trade, investment and energy cooperation, but also by ensuring that the principles of the United Nations Charter are upheld, including respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Allow me to thank you, Mr. President, for organizing today’s meeting. I would also like to thank the Secretary- General of the League of Arab States, His Excellency Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, and Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo, for their briefings. We welcome in particular the presence of Ms. Omnia El Omrani, who has enriched our discussion. The Security Council and the League do well to give a meaningful place to the views, needs and transformative power of young people in their deliberations. Not only were the League of Arab States and the United Nations founded in the same year, but they also share a common mission, the promotion of peace and security in the quest for solidarity and unity. In accordance with Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations, the League, like other regional organizations, is therefore a very important partner for the Council. Prevention, mediation and the building of lasting peace require the participation of regional communities in multilateral action, which was one of the main conclusions of the Council’s open debate on 3 May (see S/PV.9315). As Yemeni peacemaker Muna Luqman recently recalled, “there is a big gap between the local needs and what is happening globally.” The League can help bridge that gap by bringing the Council and the populations of the League’s 22 member States closer together, which is all the more necessary as challenges persist in the region. I want to speak about three such challenges. With regard to Syria, Switzerland is following current developments in the region with interest. Accordingly, we welcome the willingness expressed at recent meetings of the League of Arab States in Cairo and Jeddah, and today by the League’s Secretary-General, to work together to implement the relevant Security Council resolutions, in particular resolution 2254 (2015), with a view to finding a just and comprehensive solution to the conflict. We also welcome the attention that the League of Arab States has given to pursuing the continuation of the cross-border aid mechanism endorsed by the Council. Turning to another area, we must urgently find a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Meaningful dialogue leading towards a negotiated two-State solution is needed to enable the parties to escape the spiral of violence. Such a solution would also be central to ensuring regional security. The League of Arab States, which has evolved in the context of the conflict, has an important role to play in that regard, for example through the Arab Peace Initiative. However, it is incumbent upon all stakeholders with influence to commit to finding a solution that takes into account the aspirations of young people in particular. Finally, in Yemen, we have seen encouraging progress in peace negotiations in recent months. It will nevertheless be important to pursue efforts to conclude a new truce agreement and take steps towards an inclusive peace process. Cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States remains critical to overcoming the challenges that concern us all, including climate change, as we heard earlier this morning. The joint holding of a conference in December 2022 on drought, food security and climate resilience in Somalia demonstrated the added value of that kind of collaboration. I would like to emphasize another important point related to public life in the Arab world, which is the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women. That can be encouraged by a variety of mechanisms under the auspices of regional and international organizations. Such efforts must be complemented by an environment enabling women’s participation at the national level, including legal frameworks that guarantee women’s equal rights. Sustainable peace will either be built with women, or it will never be built at all. Switzerland supports efforts to achieve sustainable peace and maintains close relations with the countries of the region. We therefore look forward to the next meeting on general cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States, to be held in Geneva in 2024.

I thank you, Mr. President, for bringing us together today to discuss this important topic. I also want to thank Under-Secretary-General DiCarlo for her briefing. The Security Council truly appreciates the fact that Ms. El Omrani came to speak to us today. Her leadership gives me tremendous hope for the future. I also want to welcome Mr. Aboul Gheit, the Secretary- General of the League of Arab States, to this dialogue with the Security Council. The United States believes strongly that the Arab League is vital to both regional and international peace and security. By working with United Nations entities, including those established by the Security Council, we believe that the League can meaningfully advance efforts towards stability. Today I want to highlight the Arab League’s critical role across five conflicts. First, in Yemen we see a window of opportunity to achieve durable peace. We recognize the efforts of Arab States to facilitate dialogue, and we encourage Arab League members to coordinate closely with Special Envoy of the Secretary-General Grundberg as we work to achieve a lasting resolution of the conflict. Secondly, in the past few months in the Sudan we have seen conflict upend the lives of the Sudanese people. And I want to take this opportunity to express our condolences regarding the 10 Democratic Republic of Congo students who were killed recently. The United States appreciates the Arab League’s efforts to facilitate humanitarian access, a cessation of hostilities and a resumption of an inclusive political process in the Sudan. We echo Ms. DiCarlo’s comments on the key role that the League plays in that regard. We particularly welcome the Arab League’s participation in the expanded mechanism for the Sudan, together with the African Union, the United Nations, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and others. Thirdly, in Libya, we encourage the Arab League to support the Libyan people’s call for long-overdue elections. We should all back Special Representative of the Secretary-General Bathily’s push to establish a framework and timeline for elections. We also encourage the Arab League to support the withdrawal of foreign fighters in Libya and their rehabilitation and reintegration in their home countries. Fourthly, with regard to the issue of Syria, it is no secret that we disagree about Syria’s readmission to the Arab League. Simply put, we do not believe that Al-Assad has earned his place there, and the United States will not normalize relations with the regime or lift its sanctions until there is progress towards a political solution. However, we have shared goals, and we want to work with the Arab League to defend the human rights of the Syrian people and address humanitarian and security issues on the ground. The bottom line is that the needs of the Syrian people should be front and centre in any and all engagements with the regime. To that end, the Arab League should press for progress on the many Syria-related issues before the Council, including good-faith participation in the political process outlined in resolution 2254 (2015) and Syria’s obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention. It is also critical that we urge the regime to accept a 12-month renewal in July of the Security Council’s authorization of the cross-border aid mechanism. As we have said before, we must ensure that all three current border-crossings remain open. That authorization would fulfil the Arab League’s pursuit of guarantees of full and unhindered humanitarian access, including cross-border access to all areas of the country. It would also allow the United Nations and non-governmental organizations the time that they need to plan and coordinate the delivery of assistance. We encourage the League to press the Syrian regime to support such guarantees. Although the Al-Assad regime claims that it is ready to work with regional actors to receive refugees, we see no indication that it is committed to ending its harassment, arbitrary detention, torture and ill-treatment of returnees. We must also press the Al-Assad regime to create the conditions for the safe, voluntary and dignified return of refugees. And countries that have generously hosted millions of refugees must refrain from pushing them to return prematurely. We will continue to press the Al-Assad regime for the humane release of those arbitrarily detained and for a full accounting of those missing or who have died in Al-Assad’s prisons. Lastly, we applaud the Arab League’s invitation to Ukrainian President Zelenskyy to address the Summit of the Arab League of States. We all know that Arab States have felt the effects of Russia’s brutal full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russia has used food as a weapon of war, and by doing so it has increased global food prices and exacerbated food insecurity. And despite its commitments under the Black Sea Grain Initiative, Moscow continues to hinder ships’ ability to get food out to the rest of the world. We encourage Arab States to call out Moscow’s cynical efforts to undermine the Initiative and urge them to stand with Ukraine as it defends itself from Russian aggression. We also encourage the Arab League States to join the rest of the world in condemning Russia’s use of Iranian drones to harm civilians in Ukraine. The League of Arab States shoulders a weighty responsibility. So many of these conflicts are deeply complex and protracted, but I want the League of Arab States to know that it has strong partners in the United States and the United Nations. We are committed to working with the League to find creative solutions to today’s most pressing challenges. Let us build a more secure, peaceful and prosperous future for all, and let us do it together.

I thank Ms. DiCarlo, Mr. Aboul Gheit and Ms. El Omrani for their briefings. We must contribute collectively to peace and stability in the Arab world. There will be no lasting peace in the region without a political settlement in Syria. The regime must make concrete gestures so that a genuine political process can be launched in accordance with the provisions of resolution 2254 (2015). The League of Arab States made a sovereign choice to readmit the Syrian regime. France believes that the absence of clear conditions imposed on the regime will not help the Syrian people or ensure stability in the region. That is why the United Nations, the Arab League, the members of the Council and the States of the region should work together. The situation in the occupied Palestinian territory is also worrisome and there is a real risk that the conflict could become regionalized. France has consistently defended the concept of a two-State solution, with Jerusalem as the capital of both. A credible political process must be relaunched to enable a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians. We are working to that end within the Amman/Munich Group. We call on the Arab League and its members to contribute their full share to the budget of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East. The situation in Yemen is fragile, and we call on all parties, including the Houthis, to negotiate constructively to achieve a nationwide ceasefire and a lasting and inclusive political solution. Security in the region is similarly at stake. In Lebanon, the urgent steps needed to put an end to the crisis are known — electing a President without delay, forming a Government and implementing reforms to put an end to the crisis. France also remains committed to dialogue and regional stability. The goal of the Baghdad Conference and of our partnership with Iraq is to help organize regional cooperation through concrete projects. That will be the objective of the third summit to be held this year. In that complex regional context, strengthening cooperation between the Arab League and the United Nations remains crucial. France welcomes the positive role played by the Arab League in contributing to a sovereign, united, stable and democratic Libya. The legitimacy of political institutions must be restored through simultaneous presidential and parliamentary elections throughout the country. We must provide support to the mediation by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Libya and continue efforts and coordination to ensure a security environment conducive to the holding of elections. Similarly, in the Sudan, the Arab League can contribute to reaching a settlement of the conflict, together with the United Nations, the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development. France welcomes the mediation efforts of Saudi Arabia and the United States and calls on the parties to respect the commitments made in Jeddah. Only solutions aimed at lasting peace, enabling the full participation of women and young people and respecting the rights of all, will stabilize the region. France also welcomes the strengthened cooperation between the United Nations and the Arab League in the fight against terrorism. Lastly, we are seeing the impact of climate change on security every day, and it is essential to strengthen the cooperation between the United Nations and the Arab League in that area as well. We call on the member States of the Arab League to join the United Nations Climate Security Mechanism. The Arab League’s commitment to the various United Nations mediation efforts in the region and on the humanitarian front remains decisive. France stands ready to make its contribution on all those issues.

My delegation welcomes your participation, Mr. President, and thanks you for presiding over today’s important meeting on cooperation between the United Nations and subregional organizations, focusing on the League of Arab States. We thank Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo and League of Arab States Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit for their insightful briefings. We are also grateful to Ms. El Omrani for her perspectives on the subject. Close cooperation between the United Nations and regional organizations remains indispensable to addressing the peace and security challenges confronting various parts of the world. It is not surprising that Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations acknowledges the critical role of regional organizations in the maintenance of peace and security in the world. Harnessing the combined global experience of the United Nations and the local knowledge of regional organizations of the dynamics of the political, security and other development challenges in their respective regions is critical to resolving many of the crises that are confronting us. The intractable nature of some of the issues in the Arab world on the agenda of the Security Council, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Lebanese crisis and the Yemeni conflict, justifies today’s meeting, as it offers an opportunity to rethink our strategy and approach in dealing decisively with the challenges. Those conflicts continue to undermine the stability and development potential of the region, with security implications for the rest of the world. In that regard, we need enhanced collective regional and international efforts to find lasting solutions to the conflicts in the Arab world. With a view to making a meaningful impact in resolving the crises in the region, we express our full support for the conscious incorporation of local and regional concerns and perspectives into every peacebuilding initiative. We believe that the United Nations Liaison Office to the League of Arab States, if properly equipped, will be instrumental in spearheading that push for renewed coordination and collaboration in addressing challenges confronting the region. It is against that backdrop that I would like to make the following points. First, we welcome the recent restoration of diplomatic ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Islamic Republic of Iran as a positive development, as improved bilateral relations between the two countries could be instrumental in the peaceful resolution of some of the conflicts in the region. In particular, we note the positive and detailed discussions currently engaged in by the parties to the Yemeni conflict, with the support of regional stakeholders. The United Nations and the League of Arab States must seize this moment to get the parties to reach a permanent ceasefire agreement to create the conditions needed for resuming a Yemeni- led, Yemeni-owned political process under the auspices of the United Nations. Secondly, the recent readmission of Syria into the League of Arab States gives the League a strategic stake in the quest for a solution to the Syrian conflict. We fervently hope that the members of the League of Arab States will leverage the reinvigorated bond of fraternal relations to help end the country’s crisis. The setting-up of a ministerial committee made up of the Secretary-General of the League, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon and Egypt is a step in the right direction, and we call on the Syrian authorities to engage constructively with the committee to address the main drivers of the conflict and pertinent issues of concern to its Arab neighbours. Those renewed efforts should complement the ongoing work of the United Nations in charting an inclusive political path to a sustainable solution that will address the concerns and grievances of all the parties to the Syrian conflict, in accordance with resolution 2254 (2015). To that end, we encourage the Committee to reach out to all parties, including women, with a view to comprehensively addressing all grievances fuelling the conflict. Thirdly, we support strengthening trilateral cooperation among the League of Arab States, the African Union (AU) and the United Nations. Strengthening cooperation among the three organizations is critical to effectively deal with the challenges affecting countries such as Libya, Somalia and the Sudan, considering their dual membership of the AU and the League of Arab States. In Libya, for instance, bolstering the support of the three organizations for national dialogue and reconciliation efforts and the holding of inclusive elections in the country this year could help quicken the pace of the resolution of the crisis. As we reaffirm our support to African leadership in the search for peace in the Sudan, we underscore the need for coordination of the various roles played by the United Nations, the AU, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and the League of Arab States to ensure coherence and effectiveness in the efforts to secure a viable peace process and the resumption of the transition to democracy in the country. More important, there is a need to deepen collaboration between the United Nations and the League of Arab States to help revive the Middle East peace process. We must not waver in our commitment to advancing the peace process to give rise to a two- State solution based on the pre-1967 borders to give true meaning to the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people in a way that guarantees security for the State of Israel. As a troop-contributing country to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, we remain concerned that the socioeconomic and financial crisis in the country continues to affect ordinary citizens severely. The League and the United Nations need to redouble efforts to assist the Lebanese people in putting in place an effective political leadership to urgently navigate the people of Lebanon out of their current predicament through meaningful political, economic and financial reforms. We share the concerns of the civil society briefer on the impact of climate change as a factor in exacerbating conflict in the developing world. As the United Arab Emirates is preparing to take on its presidency for the twenty-eighth session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, we need to remind ourselves of the devastating effects of climate change and our collective obligation to adopt mitigation strategies to deal with the challenge. In conclusion, we remain resolute in our support for deeper and more productive cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States to address the region’s challenges.

I thank Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo for her briefing on this important issue. We are also grateful for the information presented by the Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, and by the Youth Envoy for the President of the twenty- seventh Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, Ms. Omnia El Omrani. We welcome the Permanent Representative of the Arab Republic of Egypt. Building synergies in the multilateral sphere is an effective strategy to address the demands of the different regions of the world. Cooperation between the United Nations and regional organizations is indispensable to supporting the three fundamental pillars of this Organization: the maintenance of peace and international security, the promotion and protection of human rights and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The United Nations has a history of working collaboratively with the Organization of American States, the African Union, the European Union, the League of Arab States and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, among other regional and subregional organizations, with the aim of achieving an international order that prioritizes a culture of conflict prevention and global solidarity. The cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States demonstrates the potential of that relationship in addressing the conflicts, threats and risks in that region. The Arab League has an unquestionable historical knowledge of the roots of the conflicts, the regional dynamics and the identities of the actors involved. For its part, the United Nations, has the experience and technical capabilities to promote global initiatives, negotiate them and implement them successfully on the ground. Both bodies share the view that conflicts should be resolved peacefully, prioritizing dialogue, mediation and justice and respecting the principles of sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity set out in the Charter of the United Nations, in the products of the General Assembly and the Security Council, as well as in the strategic plan of action of the Arab League. The results achieved as a result of that strategic and operational partnership in promoting peace, security and stability in the Arab region are indisputable, and we look forward to its strengthening in the short term. In that regard, we underline the enormous efforts undertaken by the League of Arab States in the face of current challenges, such as the situations in Libya, Syria, the Sudan, Yemen, Lebanon and Palestine, to name a few. In the case of Yemen, for example, it is clear that coordinating the individual mediation efforts of the United Nations and the Arab League has made it possible to enhance political negotiations, strengthen bilateral relations, promote the joint fight against terrorism and explore new development strategies. Furthermore, in an effort to support the victims and survivors of the 12 years of conflict in Syria and the victims of the earthquakes that devastated that territory in February, diplomatic and financial efforts have been key to delivering assistance to those who depend on humanitarian aid through cross-border crossings and all possible modalities. We hope that Syria’s return to the League of Arab States will open a window of opportunity towards a lasting ceasefire. The Amman declaration outlines a road map that will allow Syria to emerge from the crisis and to focus regional efforts on the most relevant areas, such as the establishment of a transparent system of transitional justice, which will make it possible to lay the foundations for national and regional reconciliation. My delegation believes that the principles contained in both the Council’s women and peace and security agenda and in the Arab Women’s Committee must be consolidated to implement concrete actions to improve the situation of women and girls in the Arab region. We believe that coordinated work could lead to greater and more meaningful participation of women and young people in mediation and peacebuilding processes. Ecuador encourages enhanced coordination among the Working Group on Children in Armed Conflict, United Nations specialized agencies and the monitoring committee to stop violence against children of the League of Arab States. The foremost mission of multilateralism is to promote preventive diplomacy and life-saving cooperation. Therefore, we encourage the United Nations and the League of Arab States to deepen strategic coordination to enable early warnings of violence, strengthen cooperation to combat terrorism and contribute to building resilient, inclusive and peaceful societies.

We welcome your participation, Sir, in today’s meeting in your capacity as President of the Security Council. We thank Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo and Secretary-General of the League of Arab States Ahmed Aboul Gheit, sharing for their assessments and considerations. We also thank Ms. Omnia El Omrani for her briefing. Russia has consistently and unfailingly advocated greater cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States. The two organizations are the same age and were established to promote peace and security on a global and regional scale. We recognize with regret that the situation in most States of the Middle East and northern Africa remains challenging, due primarily to the numerous pockets of instability in the region. Tensions persist in Syria, Libya, Yemen, the Sudan and Western Sahara. Efforts are required to bolster stability in Lebanon and Iraq. Urgent steps are needed to break the deadlock around the region’s central issue  — the Palestinian-Israeli settlement. The complex socioeconomic situation in a number of Arab States foments radical sentiments and contributes to manifestations of extremism and terror. In that context, further strengthening multilevel engagement between the Arab League and the United Nations remains a pressing need. Particularly important are ensuring collective security, countering emerging challenges and settling crises in the region, all within the framework of cooperation under Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations. We are convinced that such cooperation would help resolve existing problems and disputes peacefully, without external interference, while respecting the interests of all parties involved and on the basis of international law. In order to strengthen cooperation, in 2019, the United Nations opened a Liaison Office to the League of Arab States in Cairo, at the Arab League’s headquarters. We believe this channel should be used effectively and welcome the holding of annual informal meetings of the Security Council with members of the Council of the Arab League, which enables discussion on responses to current problems of the region and possible joint efforts for their early prevention. We also believe in the importance of maintaining active dialogue between the Arab League and the Special Representatives and Special Envoys of the United Nations Secretary-General in the Arab region in order to overcome crises and search for joint measures to resolve them. Given the particularly tense situation in a number of Arab African countries, we believe it would be relevant to expand trilateral coordination between the United Nations, the Arab League and the African Union. In that context, we reiterate that Russia traditionally supports a more active engagement of the Arab League in international formats for addressing regional crises. In particular, we have consistently supported the idea of involving Arab League representatives on the work of the Middle East Quartet of international mediators to resolving the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, a proposal that has been blocked by our colleagues on the Security Council. At the same time, we believe that a long-term sustainable resolution of the crises in the Middle East and northern Africa is possible only through collective agreements, with the active participation of Arab countries and without the external imposition of ready- made solutions. We therefore welcome the long-awaited decision of the Arab League member States to welcome Syria back into to the Arab family. For our part, in our contacts with Arab capitals, we have consistently called on them to restore full-fledged relations with Damascus. We are convinced that such a step would not only promote current efforts to consolidate stability and security in the Middle East, but will also send an important signal that Syria has been and remains a full- fledged member of the United Nations, the Arab League and other associations, despite Western attempts to isolate representatives of the Syrian Government. Unfortunately, despite the objective reality, those attempts continue. Damascus was once again not invited, this time to the seventh Brussels Conference. We trust that Arab States will increase support to Syrians in order to help with post-conflict recovery in their country, which is obstructed by the illegitimate unilateral sanctions imposed against Damascus. We believe that the decision of the Council of the Arab League demonstrated the desire of the Arab world to strengthen coordination in the interests of resolving urgent regional and international problems and reaffirmed its commitment to continue pursuing an independent global policy based on their fundamental interests. In conclusion, we again reaffirm our readiness to do our utmost to contribute to normalizing the situation, both in our national capacity and collectively, including through cooperation between the Arab League and the United Nations. In that context, we recall the Russian concept of collective security in the Persian Gulf, which is aimed at rejecting confrontational approaches and promoting a constructive unifying agenda. Our initiative is an invitation to dialogue, in which the Arab League and the United Nations can play an important role.

I thank Under-Secretary- General DiCarlo, the Secretary-General of the League of Arab States and Ms. El Omrani for their briefings. Albania welcomes this high-level meeting on the cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States and thanks the United Arab Emirates for organizing it. We also welcome the Emirati Minister of State, who is presiding over this meeting. We underline the value of ever-closer cooperation between the United Nations and the Arab League in addressing the many serious challenges in the region. Joint efforts only increase the legitimacy and effectiveness of peace initiatives and promote sustainable solutions. A world affected by multiple security and political challenges needs effective multilateralism, strong partnerships and new mechanisms for cooperation. Regional organizations are the first in line to respond to challenges affecting their area by promoting security cooperation among their members. Millions of people across the Arab region continue to suffer from old and recent conflicts, all of which create an ever-growing demand for the United Nations and the Arab League to leverage their combined strength and respond to the most pressing needs, in particular, in addressing humanitarian challenges resulting from conflicts, terrorism and other security threats, natural disasters, climate change and the refugee crisis. The ongoing spiralling violence in the Sudan, the troubling lack of perspective for a much-needed political horizon in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the ongoing quagmire in Syria and the stalemate in Libya represent only some of the enormous challenges that urgently require solutions. The Abraham Accords marked a significant shift in the dynamics of the Middle East, and have contributed to regional stability by fostering new relationships and alliances, opening new avenues for diplomatic engagement, dialogue, economic cooperation and development and creating a more stable environment in the region by countering common threats. We want to believe that the Accords have the potential to positively impact the Israeli-Palestinian peace process by creating a more conducive environment for peace negotiations. It should be fully exploited to reduce and end the pervasive cycle of violence, which nowadays leaves little place for anything else, much less real hope. Only a solution with two States for two people, with Jerusalem as shared capital, will bring lasting peace to Israelis and Palestinians. We are encouraged by the developments and positive dynamics in Yemen. All parties must seize the opportunity created by combined efforts from the United Nations and its Special Envoy and the regional actors, Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman, to work for lasting peace through an inclusive Yemeni process. We also praise the role of the Gulf Cooperation Council in that regard. Every effort towards inclusive solutions will help alleviate the humanitarian crises and pave the way towards the economic recovery of the country. We welcome the participation of President Zelenksyy in the 2023 Arab League summit, held in Jeddah, which represents a recognition of the worldwide devastating consequences of the Russian aggression against Ukraine, not least in relation to food security. Libya remains at a crossroads. Albania supports the efforts of Special Representative Bathily to enable national elections in Libya through a comprehensive approach and inclusivity. The only response to the current deadlock that can meet the aspirations of the Libyan people for democracy is the holding of free, fair and transparent elections to restore legitimacy. Albania welcomes the adoption of the resolution 2684 (2023), on enforcing the arms embargo, which remains crucial for advancing peace and security in the country and the region. Syria was recently reintegrated in the League of Arab States. We remain sceptical that the regime will reciprocate the good intentions of the League by responding promptly and in good faith to meet the demands put forward by the League. I hope we are wrong, but experience has shown that the stubbornness of the regime to continue its stance of total denial, while sitting on a mountain of crimes, with the hope of escaping accountability, remains unchanged. But we should not forget the deliberate use of sarin and chlorine gas against innocent civilians; the deliberate targeting of civilians through indiscriminate bombing, barrel bombs and the shelling of residential areas; the widespread use of torture and extrajudicial killings and more than 130,000 people whose whereabouts remain unknown. We remain convinced that the only way forward to lasting peace in Syria is the full implementation of resolution 2254 (2015) and a serious Syrian-led transition towards a free, democratic and prosperous Syria for all Syrians. The Arab League has an important role to play, including in supporting efforts to maintain open for as long as it is needed the three cross-border points to maintain the critical lifeline for millions in need. Let me conclude by welcoming the particular focus of the League of Arab States on combating all forms of violence against women and girls, which goes hand in hand with the need to strengthen the political, social and economic empowerment of women. We further praise the focus on young people, who have great potential and are another important player in peacebuilding efforts, but also in taking a stronger and leading role in mitigating the climate crisis. The experience of other areas and regions has shown that harnessing the energy, creativity and ingenuity of people without distinction is indispensable in order to craft solutions that are responsive to the real needs of people  — solutions that meet their aspirations for a dignified life, social and economic progress, human rights, fostering democracy and achieving sustainable development in the entire Arab world.

I would like to start by expressing our deep appreciation to you, Mr. President, and your country for convening this high-level briefing under the important theme of cooperation between the United Nations and regional and subregional organizations. This is a timely moment, which requires more collective action to overcome global challenges. I thank Under-Secretary General Rosemary DiCarlo; Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, Ahmed Aboul Gheit; and Youth Envoy for the President of the twenty-seventh Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, Ms. Omnia El Omrani, for their insightful briefings. Mozambique strongly supports and advocates enhanced cooperation between the United Nations and regional and subregional organizations. That is anchored in Article 53 of the Charter of the United Nations, “The Security Council shall, where appropriate, utilize such regional arrangements or agencies”  — regional and subregional organizations  — “for enforcement action under its authority.” In that regard, we highly commend the collaboration and cooperation between the United Nations and regional and subregional organizations. That cooperation is achieving tangible results in many domains, including in the promotion of peace and security. However, even more can be done to make full use of the potential offered by regional organizations. We therefore welcome the opportunity to discuss this topic today. Mozambique supports all efforts towards the strengthening of cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States, on which I would like to highlight the following. First, a number of countries within the Arab world are facing complex security challenges that require increased cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States. Our own experience in Mozambique testifies to the crucial role played by regional organizations in addressing security challenges due to their proximity to the conflict- affected areas, their ability to detect early warning signs and their in-depth knowledge of regional conflict trends and dynamics. In working together, the United Nations and the League of Arab States can give additional impetus to the existing local, national and international efforts to find peaceful and sustainable solutions to situations of instability in Libya, Syria, Yemen, the Sudan, Somalia and Palestine, among others. These meetings are therefore a welcome opportunity to explore how we, as a Council, and the international community more broadly, can support both organizations to continue to strengthen their cooperation and coordination to promote peace and stability in the world. There is no doubt that involving women in conflict resolution and peacebuilding efforts will lead to more sustainable outcomes. It is fundamental to promote the full participation of women and women- led organizations in peace efforts across the region, including those supported by the United Nations. Secondly, we believe that the League of Arab States is well positioned to understand the root causes of conflicts in the region of its jurisdiction and can contribute significantly with appropriate solutions to address them and drive forward sustainable development along the peace-development-security nexus. The experience of many countries in the Arab region, such as our experience in Mozambique and across Africa, demonstrates the undeniable link between climate-related risks and conflict. We should ensure that this issue remains high on the agenda and a priority in our discussions. Thirdly, 9 countries out of 22 members of the League of Arab States are on the African continent. As such, the African Union has a critical role to play in enhancing cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States on the African files. We believe that regional organizations, including the African Union, are an effective way to gain a collective understanding of security challenges in the respective regions and to develop appropriate responses to addressing them and securing a safer and more peaceful future for generations to come. Fourthly, we welcome the diplomatic rapprochement between Arab States in recent times. The perspective of an end to a long rift that has shaped the geopolitics in the Middle East can benefit the region and the world at large, as we are called to join our efforts to efficiently address the global challenges of our time. In conclusion, we commend the cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States, which adds value and strengthens our capacity to address the root causes of conflict, violent extremism conducive to terrorism, maritime insecurity, trafficking in small arms and light weapons, transnational organized crime and climate change, among other current security challenges. We hope that today’s fruitful discussion and the proposals put forward by members will provide an impetus for deepening that cooperation, which will contribute to peace across the Arab region and around the world.

I thank you, Mr. President, for your initiative in convening this important meeting on cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States. I thank the Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo for her briefing. I welcome the participation at this meeting of the Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, His Excellency Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, and thank him for his enlightening briefing. I also thank Ms. Omnia El Omrani for her briefing. We welcomed with interest the letter dated 8 May 2023 from the Secretary-General (S/2023/331) responding to the request for a brief report, covering the period from 23 March 2022 to 7 May 2023, on the implementation of presidential statement 2022/1 of 23 March 2022. This brief report highlights active cooperation and a willingness to capitalize on synergies, reflected, in particular in joint action by the United Nations and the Arab League on important issues relating to international peace and security. The report underlines the decisive role played by regional organizations because of their proximity to the realities of crises. The result is a better understanding of conflicts and their root causes, including the ability to make the Organization’s efforts more specific, cohesive and appropriate. Cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States has intensified over the years and encompasses a wide range of issues from economic development to the promotion and respect of human rights and the strengthening of political inclusion, as necessary. The secretariats of the United Nations and the League of Arab States and the respective agencies, funds and programmes of the two organizations hold regular consultations and sectoral meetings. There are many areas of common concern — Iraq, Lebanon, the Middle East peace process, including the Palestinian question, Syria and Yemen. These are all regions beset by security and humanitarian crises that have a tragic impact on civilian populations, with destabilizing effects and threats to peace and security that are not only regional, but also international. Other areas of concern include, more recently, the Sudan, and prior to that, Libya. Gabon promotes a regional narrative in responses to crises, led by those who are first to suffer. The dynamic of cooperation is all the more necessary given that in a security context marked by multifaceted crises, the scale of United Nations requests and the increasingly regional nature of crises require the United Nations to be better connected to the realities on the ground in order to make its actions more effective. In that respect, the recent summit of the League of Arab States, held in Jeddah, with the participation of Syria, was a model of the commitment of the countries concerned to fully assume their responsibilities in the quest for peace and stability. We hope that this momentum will lead to lasting solutions for the major challenges of the region, particularly the Israeli- Palestinian peace process, for which we reaffirm our support for the two-State solution. Almost half of the Arab population lives in Africa. That sociological reality seals the shared destiny between the League of Arab States and the African Union, two regional organizations with cross-cutting concerns regarding peace and security, the fight against terrorism, drug trafficking, human trafficking and the fight against climate change. To that end, trilateral cooperation between the United Nations, the League of Arab States and the African Union must be active and permanent in preventing and resolving crises that threaten peace at the regional and international levels. The participation of Secretary-General António Guterres and Secretary- General Aboul Gheit in the virtual summit organized by the African Union on 20 April, on developments in the Sudan, is a perfect illustration of that trilateral interaction. Allow me to touch on a few guidelines for ensuring a more productive partnership between the United Nations and the League of Arab States. First, the partnership must be based on complementarity and comparative advantages. In addition to the advantage of having in-depth knowledge of their area, regional and subregional organizations, through their regional mechanisms, can mobilize and deploy rapidly on the ground. That requires stable and predictable financial, logistical and technical support, as well as capacity-building. Secondly, cooperation must be based on better coordination and communication. In the fight against terrorism, transnational crime and the response to humanitarian crises or natural disasters, which are all complex and interdependent challenges requiring the involvement of several players, it is essential to have regular exchanges of information. Thirdly, we need to establish consistent crisis management or resolution mechanisms in which the tasks and responsibilities of the various players are clearly defined. That would enable the development of agreed policies between the United Nations and regional and subregional organizations, with a view to dealing effectively with crisis situations. In conclusion, I would like to stress the importance of enhancing synergy in the actions of the United Nations and the League of Arab States, specifically, and more generally, that of regional and subregional organizations. This is a decisive step towards fulfilling our international commitments and our shared desire to considerably improve collective security, in particular through efforts to prevent conflicts and to maintain and consolidate peace.

I thank His Excellency Minister Khalifa Shaheen Almarar and express my sincere thanks to the Under-Secretary-General, the Secretary-General of the League of Arab States and Ms. Omnia El Omrani for their briefings. I also acknowledge the participation of the Egyptian Permanent Representative in our meeting today. Today’s meeting underlines the crucial role of regional organizations in the maintenance of peace and security through their extensive understanding of their region and by fostering cooperation. The League of Arab States remains a contributor to stability and to facilitating dialogue in a region that continues to face multiple challenges, including the ongoing stalemate in the Middle East peace process, protracted conflicts in Syria and Yemen, political stalemates in Libya and Lebanon, coupled with the instability and outbreak of hostilities we have seen in other countries, such as Iraq and the Sudan. We emphasize the need for long-lasting political solutions to address these ongoing concerns. To that end, Malta strongly encourages greater coordination between the United Nations and the League of Arab States, including through exchanges between Special Envoys and Representatives. We also highlight the key role that the United Nations Liaison Office to the League of Arab States, in Cairo, has to play and the importance of the Council’s organization of informal interactive dialogues to develop closer coordination on regional issues of concern. Millions of people in Syria, Yemen and the occupied Palestinian territories remain in acute humanitarian need as a result of conflict. To address that, the League of Arab States can continue to strengthen its partnership with the United Nations by expanding its mobilization of resources for United Nations humanitarian response plans, host regional emergency humanitarian hubs, expand partnerships and facilitate the principled delivery of humanitarian assistance wherever it is needed. We look forward to seeing that demonstrated again in July as we move towards the renewal of the humanitarian cross-border mechanism in Syria. The international community has witnessed significant developments in the region over the past months. The agreement reached between Iran and Saudi Arabia to resume diplomatic ties is a positive development that has the potential to advance peace and stability throughout the Gulf and beyond. To further reduce tensions, it is important that an agreement on a return to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action is achieved. In the light of the decision of the League of Arab States to resume Syria’s participation in meetings, it is critical to highlight that actions taken at the global level, including those agreed upon by the Security Council, must be supported by actions at the regional level. In this case, a United Nations-facilitated political process in line with resolution 2254 (2015) is the only way forward. The two organizations share a common goal of promoting peaceful coexistence and advancing peace. That can be achieved only through collaboration in the areas of conflict prevention and resolution, preventive diplomacy, peacekeeping and peacebuilding and through building open and inclusive societies that guarantee freedom of opinion and expression. We will be able to build such societies only if both the United Nations and the League of Arab States promote and protect human rights. They must also ensure the full, equal and meaningful participation and leadership of women at all levels of decision-making and constructively engage with civil society organizations. Joint initiatives that seek to advance those goals, such as the support offered to the Arab Women Mediators Network and the holding of training on gender and elections, are to be commended. It is correspondingly essential that we support young people and empower them to serve as agents of positive change. We must ensure that young people are able to participate in regional peace and security efforts and are provided access to opportunities. Failure on that front makes young people more susceptible to recruitment by terrorist organizations. On that note, Malta underscores that regional efforts to counter terrorism must always comply with international law, in particular international human rights law and international humanitarian law. We must also be aware that the Arab world is vulnerable to climate change. We are witnessing the advance of desertification, an increase in droughts and water insecurity. In that vein, we welcome the cooperation between the two organizations in addressing the effects of climate change on peace and security. Finally, I will conclude by reiterating the need for the cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States to continue. Synergies on countering new challenges and jointly preventing the escalation of conflicts in the region need to be actively pursued. It is only though that approach that we can collectively address threats to international peace and security.

Brazil thanks the United Arab Emirates for organizing this high-level briefing. Effective collaboration between the United Nations and the League of Arab States can only benefit from an open and frank dialogue involving the two organizations. We thank Under-Secretary-General DiCarlo, as well the Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, for sharing their views with the Security Council, on behalf of their respective organizations. I also thank Ms. El Omrani for her participation. Brazil recognizes the importance of this meeting and welcomes the initiative of the United Arab Emirates. Today the Council has an opportunity not just to hear about the coordination efforts currently being undertaken between the two organizations. The Council also has an opportunity to reflect on how to integrate, in the United Nations peace and security framework, the authoritative stance taken by the League of Arab States in relation to important developments in the Arab world. Last month, the Arab League unanimously decided to reinstate the Syrian Arab Republic as a member of the organization. We welcome that decision, which signals the existence of new political dynamics in relation to the Syrian conflict. We hope it will positively affect ongoing efforts to bring peace and stability to the region. That encouraging development should not be overlooked by the United Nations mediation work pursued under resolution 2254 (2015). We also acknowledge that, over the years, the Arab League has greatly contributed to efforts towards a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian issue. The 2002 Arab Peace Initiative is one example, among others, of such efforts. The League’s multiple initiatives have played an important role in building consensus and have been of great value to the discussions about the conflict in this very Council. As we watch today the increasing deterioration of security levels in the region, Brazil shares the Arab League’s concern about the complete absence of peace talks between Israel and Palestine. Brazil also notes that the Arab League, together with the African Union, are in a privileged position to play an important role in support of the Libyan political process. The fact that Libya is itself a member of those two regional organizations only reinforces the pre-eminence of their possible contribution in relation to the Libyan file, which continues to require a truly Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political solution. As we stated at last year’s meeting, “[m]any of the conflicts in the Arab world were created or exacerbated by forces outside the region, while the interests and well-being of Arab peoples are — most of the time — sidelined.” (S/PV.9001, p. 16) That situation not only is at odds with the Charter of the United Nations, but it has also contributed to putting the multilateral system under stress. We recognize, to use an expression from the concept note of United Arab Emirates (S/2023/407, annex), the comparative advantage of regional organizations in supporting the maintenance of peace and security in their respective contexts. With regard to its own region, there is no doubt that the Arab League is in a privileged position to understand and address the root causes of conflict and instability. The collaboration between the United Nations and the League of Arab States on capacity-building should also bear in mind that regional comparative advantage. Brazil welcomes the willingness of the United Nations to continue enhancing the capacity of the Arab League, including in prevention, counter-terrorism and peacebuilding. Those efforts should be pursued based on the needs and priorities as identified by the regional organization itself and by its member States. In that regard, Brazil commends the initiatives and priorities set out by the Arab League related to the promotion and protection of the rights of women and youth in the region. We acknowledge and encourage the support and partnership provided by the United Nations upon request. Brazil has historical ties with the Arab people, a community with which, it shares deep human and cultural connections, as well as a wide array of common interests. The League of Arab States has been a traditional partner of Brazil. Its first permanent delegation in Brazil was opened in 1956, and since then, Brazil’s relationship with the organization and with each of its member countries has gained increasing importance. Throughout its existence, we have seen the Arab League raise its voice in support of the principles of the Charter of the United Nations. Brazil recognizes and values the League in that regard and strongly supports its collaboration with the Council. We also commend the League’s collaboration with other United Nations organs and entities regarding activities outside the realm of international peace and security.

I now give the floor to the representative of Egypt.

At the outset, I would like on behalf of the Group of Arab States in New York to express to you, Mr. President, my sincere congratulations on your assumption of the presidency of the Security Council during the current month. I also express appreciation to the delegation of the sisterly United Arab Emirates for convening this meeting and for its good representation of the Arab interests in the Security Council. I also thank Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs; the Secretary-General of the League of Arab States and Ms. Omnia El Omrani, Youth Envoy for the President of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, for their briefings. Cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States is of particular importance in light of the current regional and international developments which demand greater efforts to maintain international peace and security, in line with Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations, with a view to achieving collective security. Cooperation between the two organizations is also of particular importance in light of the current international developments and the resulting global economic crisis that led to high food prices and the inability of countries to achieve food security. Regrettably, the ability of donor countries to direct the necessary funding for humanitarian activities has also declined, which has adversely affected Arab countries, especially those suffering from crises that require support to alleviate humanitarian suffering. In addition, Arab countries face chronic economic and social challenges, especially in the areas of climate change, water scarcity and the threat to water security. The Arab countries seek to face all those challenges through hosting the twenty-seventh Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in the city of Sharm El-Sheikh in 2022. The Conference yielded important outcomes in connection with the aspirations of developing countries, most notably the historic decision to establish the loss and damage fund. Dubai, in turn, will host the twenty- eighth Conference of the Parties in 2023, as the Arab Group looks forward to the adoption of resolutions that will help address the negative repercussions of climate change. The Group commends the close cooperation between the Egyptian and Emirati presidencies to ensure a smooth transition between them and appreciates all relevant initiatives, especially the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Middle East Green Initiative. From that standpoint, the Arab countries, through the League of Arab States, have been keen to cooperate with the United Nations in many areas, as reflected in the 8 May letter from the Secretary-General of the United Nations to the President of the Security Council (S/2023/331). The Arab Group affirms that it supports close cooperation between the two organizations with a view to achieving the objectives to which we all aspire. It is no secret that the continuing crises in the Arab region are draining its limited resources, which must be directed towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and the aspirations of the peoples of the region. While the current international developments have occupied a part of the efforts of the United Nations over the past two years, especially in the Security Council, the Arab Group looks forward to the Council continuing to prioritize the security and stability of the Middle East on its agenda. For its part, the Arab Group affirms the readiness of Arab States to play an active role in achieving security, peace and stability in the region, in keeping with the principle of Arab solutions to Arab crises, decisions of international legitimacy, Security Council resolutions and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, especially respect for the sovereignty and unity of Arab States, their regional integration and non-interference in their internal affairs. In that context, the Arab Group looks forward to the continuation and intensification of cooperation between the League of Arab States and the United Nations and suggests a number of proposals that could contribute to strengthening cooperation between the two organizations, as follows. First, we must strengthen cooperation between the two organizations to enable them to effectively address the global economic crisis and its impact on Arab countries, especially with regard to high food prices, as well as to provide humanitarian support to countries suffering from ongoing humanitarian crises. Secondly, we must enhance existing institutional cooperation between the two organizations in all fields in a manner that bolsters preventive diplomacy and peacebuilding and peacekeeping mechanisms, promotes the participation of women and youth and builds the capacity of personnel in Member States and the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States. Thirdly, we must intensify consultations between the two sides, whether at the level of the Secretaries- General of both organizations or among the permanent representatives of the Security Council and the Council of the League of Arab States, in addition to holding the annual meeting between the members of the Security Council and representatives of the Arab Summit Troika and the Secretary-General of the League of Arab States on the sidelines of the meetings of the high-level segment of the General Assembly. Fourthly, we must continue coordination and consultation between the League of Arab States and the envoys of the Secretary-General of the United Nations to the region on the issues on the agenda of the Council of the League of Arab States. Fifthly, we must work to achieve consensus and unify the position of the Security Council on Arab issues, while limiting the use of the veto and promoting Arab solutions to Arab problems. Sixthly, we must periodically follow up the role of the United Nations Liaison Office to the League of Arab States in order to strengthen the role of the Office and provide it with the necessary support to achieve the desired goals. Last but not least, cooperation between the two organizations cannot contribute to achieving security, peace and stability in the region without settling all its current crises through the implementation of the relevant Security Council resolutions, especially with regard to the Palestinian question, which remains the central issue of the Arab nation, through the independence of the Palestinian State along the lines of 4 June 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with the decisions of international legitimacy, as well as the liberation of all occupied Arab territories in the Syrian Golan and southern Lebanon.