UAE calls for strengthening Arab parliamentary cooperation amid regional challenges

emirates7 - The Federal National Council (FNC) has highlighted that the region is facing a growing number of complex challenges — from political conflicts and disputes to economic, climate, and technological issues — which are shaping both current realities and future prospects.

These pressing issues necessitate a shared commitment to bolstering Arab parliamentary cooperation, utilizing parliamentary diplomacy, advocating peaceful conflict resolution, and reinforcing frameworks for dialogue, integration, collaboration, and Arab unity.

This message was conveyed by Dr. Tariq Humaid Al Tayer, First Deputy Speaker of the FNC and head of the UAE Parliamentary Division’s delegation to the Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union (AIPU), as he delivered the UAE’s address on behalf of FNC Speaker Saqr Ghobash during the 38th AIPU Conference held in Algiers, Algeria, from May 2–4, 2025.

The UAE Parliamentary Division underlined the need to strengthen parliamentary diplomacy both regionally and globally in partnership with various stakeholders to facilitate humanitarian aid, reduce conflict escalation, and ensure civilian protection in accordance with international humanitarian law.

Dr. Al Tayer reaffirmed that the Palestinian cause remains the central concern for Arabs, Muslims, and humanity as a whole. He described the current phase as deeply critical and existential, marked by enormous challenges and a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented scale. This demands a unified Arab response capable of addressing the magnitude of the tragedy and committed to restoring the legitimate rights, dignity, and justice for the Palestinian people.

He pointed out that the ongoing war in Gaza, now in its second year, has led to tens of thousands of deaths and injuries, widespread displacement, and severe damage to infrastructure. The humanitarian situation has deteriorated significantly due to the Israeli blockade on Gaza, which threatens the complete breakdown of aid delivery systems and poses a grave risk to civilian lives.

Dr. Al Tayer stressed that moral duty, historical accountability, and shared human values compel Arab nations to confront this challenge. A unified and determined Arab approach is essential—one that mirrors the hopes and expectations of Arab peoples in light of the suffering in Palestine. He emphasized the need for collective action to protect Palestinian lives, expedite humanitarian aid, and pressure governments and the international community to take responsibility for the crisis.

He also reiterated the UAE’s longstanding commitment to the Palestinian cause, emphasizing that the country has continuously supported the Palestinian people across political, developmental, and humanitarian fronts. He referenced "Operation Chivalrous Knight 3" as an example of the UAE's current humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza, rooted in the country’s deep humanitarian legacy established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and maintained by current leadership.

Dr. Al Tayer firmly rejected Israel's use of collective punishment and any attempts to forcibly displace Palestinians. He condemned policies of starvation and settlement expansion, calling them clear violations of international law and United Nations resolutions.

He urged the implementation of a lasting ceasefire, the release of detainees and hostages on both sides, and the revival of political dialogue through peaceful, constructive channels aimed at achieving a just solution that fulfills Palestinian aspirations and promotes long-term regional peace and stability.

He reaffirmed the UAE's unwavering support for the Palestinian people's right to live in freedom and dignity, and endorsed regional and international initiatives to revive the peace process, especially the two-state solution. This approach is viewed by the UAE as the most effective pathway to establishing an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, consistent with the Arab Peace Initiative and relevant international resolutions.

Dr. Al Tayer concluded by noting that the Arab world is experiencing increasing complexity due to rapid regional and global shifts, including changes in global alliances and technology, alongside a decline in the effectiveness and credibility of multilateral institutions. These realities demand a reassessment and renewal of regional strategies and tools.

In this context, he stated that the Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union must now assume a more proactive role, embracing forward-thinking approaches to tackle critical issues. It must serve as a central platform for unified Arab parliamentary action.

To fulfill this role, he called for the activation of parliamentary diplomacy at all levels, improved operational frameworks, and the establishment of strategic partnerships with other parliaments and international organizations — all aimed at advancing Arab interests and enhancing the Arab world’s role in an increasingly complex global landscape.