RIYADH: Arab ministers convened in Jeddah on Wednesday, as the Arab League opened its 32nd summit, and welcomed Syria’s return to the Arab League during their meeting.
The ministerial gathering, chaired by Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan, discussed the draft agenda of the upcoming Arab leaders’ summit and considered the draft decisions to be adopted.
Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad confirmed that President Bashar al-Assad would attend the summit later this week, signaling Syria’s reintegration into the Arab bloc.
This development was greeted with approval by Prince Faisal, Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit, and other delegates present at the meeting, highlighting the significance of Syria’s return to the Arab League.
Arab Unity in the Face of Global Challenges
Addressing the gathering, Prince Faisal emphasized the need for Arab unity in the face of global challenges. He called for innovative approaches to confront the various issues confronting Arab countries, stressing the importance of finding new solutions.
وزير خارجية #السعودية خلال الاجتماع التحضيري للقمة العربية: نرحب بعودة #سوريا للجامعة العربية.. وعلينا أن نبتكر آليات جديدة لمواجهة التحديات التي تواجهنا pic.twitter.com/mWRepqOYK6
— العربية السعودية (@AlArabiya_KSA) May 17, 2023
Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf of Algeria expressed concerns over the ongoing unrest in Sudan and reiterated his country’s support for Saudi Arabia’s efforts to establish a ceasefire. The ministers emphasized the significance of a ceasefire in Sudan to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens, while also emphasizing that the crisis should be addressed as an internal matter.
Attaf further urged increased efforts to support the Palestinian cause until independence is achieved. He reiterated Algeria’s commitment to initiatives that promote peace and stability in Yemen. Additionally, Attaf expressed hope for the Lebanese government to reach an understanding that would help alleviate the crisis in the country.
As the 32nd Arab League summit unfolds, Arab ministers are engaged in crucial discussions to address regional challenges and enhance cooperation among member states.
The return of Syria to the Arab League marks a significant development, with the summit providing an opportunity for leaders to deliberate on pressing issues and pave the way for greater unity and collaboration within the Arab world.
