Arab League summit adopts Jeddah Declaration, addresses regional issues and calls for unity
The Arab League's 32nd summit in Jeddah concluded with the adoption of the Jeddah Declaration, emphasizing the importance of unity for achieving security and stability.
The summit covered various topics, including the zionist aggression against Palestinian people and developments in Sudan, Yemen, Libya, and Lebanon. Notably, Syria participated in the summit for the first time in over a decade.
Regarding the Zionist regime’s attacks on Palestinian people, the Arab League members reiterated the significance of the Palestinian cause and affirmed Palestine's right to full control over all territories occupied in 1967, including East Jerusalem. They also stressed the need to activate the Arab Peace Initiative proposed by Saudi Arabia and endorsed by the Arab League in 2002.
The Arab League welcomed Syria's return after years of isolation and expressed hope that it would contribute to Syria's stability and unity. They emphasized the need to intensify Arab efforts in assisting Syria in resolving its crisis. Saudi Arabia plans to discuss its ties with Syria with Western partners, despite criticism from Washington and Europe.
In Sudan, the Arab League rejected foreign interferences that exacerbate the conflict between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. They urged dialogue and unity among the warring factions. The conflict has displaced hundreds of thousands of people within Sudan and forced many to seek refuge in neighboring countries.
In Yemen, the Arab League reaffirmed support for international and regional efforts to reach a political solution to the long-standing war. The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and left millions reliant on international aid. A UN-brokered ceasefire in April 2022 reduced casualties, but fighting has remained relatively subdued since the truce expired in October.
Regarding Lebanon, the Arab states called on authorities to expedite the election of a president, form a cabinet, and implement economic reforms to overcome the ongoing crisis. Lebanon has been grappling with a severe economic downturn since 2019, and a caretaker cabinet has been in place since May last year due to the absence of a clear majority in the legislative polls.
The Arab League also expressed its rejection of foreign interferences in the internal affairs of Arab countries. They strongly opposed the formation and support of armed militias, warning that internal military conflicts would exacerbate people's suffering.
Under Saudi Arabia's presidency of the Arab Summit, they aim to strengthen joint Arab action in cultural, economic, social, and environmental sectors. Initiatives include teaching the Arabic language to non-native speakers, particularly the children of second and third-generation Arab immigrants, to foster better communication between Arab countries and the rest of the world. Additionally, efforts will be made to sustain the supply chains of essential food commodities for Arab nations, promoting investment opportunities and contributing to food security in the Arab world. (ILKHA)