The United Arab Emirates (UAE) emerged as a key facilitator this week, fostering a high-level dialogue between the United Nations Security Council and the League of Arab States (LAS). The conference, held virtually on Wednesday, aimed to strengthen collaboration on issues of regional concern.
Khalifa Shaheen, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, served as president of the council for the first half of its 2022-2023 term. During this period, the UAE championed closer cooperation between the UN and the LAS. This week's conference served as a continuation of these efforts.
Rosemary DiCarlo, UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, addressed the gathering, highlighting the "robust relationship" between the two organizations. She underscored the importance of continued collaboration, particularly in the face of ongoing challenges across the Arab world.
A shared priority for both the UN and the LAS is the pursuit of a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. DiCarlo emphasized that a two-state solution remains the "only path to sustainable peace." She commended the recent resolutions adopted by the LAS that mirrored the UN's position.
The conference also explored avenues for enhanced regional participation in UN Security Council deliberations. Omnia El Omrani, Youth Envoy for the President of the UN Climate Change Conference, emphasized the critical role Arab youth can play. She highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on the region's young population, urging engagement with them to address this pressing issue.
This week's dialogue reflects a growing recognition of the need for a unified Arab voice on the international stage. The UAE, with its position on the Security Council and strong ties within the LAS, is well-positioned to bridge the gap between these two influential bodies. While challenges remain, the conference serves as a significant step towards a more collaborative future for the UN, the LAS, and the Arab world.