UAE Minister Sheikh Shakhboot Delivers Comprehensive Address at UN General Assembly

New York, October 1, 2024 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of State, delivered a detailed and comprehensive address during the General Debate of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Monday, reiterating the United Arab Emirates’ unwavering commitment to diplomacy, regional stability, and international cooperation.

In his opening remarks, Sheikh Shakhboot praised the leadership of the UN General Assembly's new president, Philemon Yang, and expressed gratitude to his predecessor, Dennis Francis, for his contributions. Sheikh Shakhboot emphasized that the UAE, as a founding member of the United Nations, remains fully committed to the organization’s principles, stressing the importance of upholding international law, human rights, and the protection of civilians in conflict zones.

Addressing the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Sheikh Shakhboot urged an immediate and lasting ceasefire, calling on all parties to facilitate full and unimpeded humanitarian access to civilians affected by the violence. “It is vital that we act now to alleviate the suffering of the innocent and ensure humanitarian assistance reaches those in need,” Sheikh Shakhboot stated. He also called for the release of all hostages and detainees, and urged the implementation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions to address the crisis.

In addition to the Gaza conflict, Sheikh Shakhboot expressed deep concern over the escalating violence in Lebanon following Israeli airstrikes. He emphasized the need to protect regional and international stability, urging the international community to prevent further escalation and ensure the security of critical infrastructure, including energy supplies and international trade routes. “The spread of conflict in Lebanon further destabilizes an already fragile region, and immediate action must be taken to halt the violence,” he warned.

On Sudan, Sheikh Shakhboot condemned the continued fighting and the targeting of civilians. He called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and demanded unhindered access for humanitarian aid across conflict lines. He also denounced the recent attack on the UAE’s embassy in Khartoum as a violation of international norms, urging all parties to respect diplomatic missions and engage in meaningful peace talks. Sheikh Shakhboot highlighted the UAE’s efforts to mediate in Sudan and expressed his country’s commitment to providing $100 million in humanitarian assistance to support Sudanese civilians affected by the conflict.

The minister also touched on the ongoing war in Ukraine, calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. He highlighted the UAE's mediation efforts, which have resulted in the release of nearly 2,000 prisoners of war, and stressed the importance of de-escalation, dialogue, and reconstruction. “It is imperative that we seek a peaceful solution to this devastating conflict, which has far-reaching consequences for global security and food stability,” he added.

On regional matters, Sheikh Shakhboot reaffirmed the UAE’s stance on the issue of the three islands—Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa—currently under Iranian occupation. He called on Iran to resolve the issue either through direct negotiations or by referring the dispute to the International Court of Justice, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to international law and peaceful dispute resolution.

Climate change was another key focus of Sheikh Shakhboot’s address. He highlighted the UAE’s leadership in global climate action, noting the importance of the upcoming COP28 conference, which the UAE will host. He reiterated the UAE’s commitment to achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement and called for continued collaboration to address the existential threat posed by climate change. “We must ensure that no country is left behind in the fight against climate change, and the UAE remains dedicated to advancing clean energy and sustainability,” he said.

The UAE’s humanitarian efforts were also a central theme in Sheikh Shakhboot’s address. He announced the UAE’s provision of $100 million in aid to Lebanon to support its people during the ongoing crisis and outlined the country’s extensive support for Palestinian civilians in Gaza. This includes establishing a field hospital in Rafah and a floating hospital in Al-Arish to treat those injured in the conflict. “The UAE will continue to stand by those in need, providing vital aid and support wherever it is required,” Sheikh Shakhboot asserted.

In closing, Sheikh Shakhboot called for comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council to enhance its ability to address global crises effectively. He emphasized the need for greater inclusion of developing countries in global decision-making processes, urging the international community to empower women and youth to play more prominent roles in peacebuilding and governance. “The world is at a crossroads, and we must seize this moment to reform our international institutions to better serve the needs of humanity,” he concluded.

The UAE delegation accompanying Sheikh Shakhboot included Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs, and Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab, Permanent Representative of the UAE to the United Nations.