New York: Osama bin Saleh Al Alawi, the Minister of Social Development and Chairman of the 44th session of the Council of Arab Ministers of Social Affairs, chaired a meeting of Arab ministers and heads of delegations held on the sidelines of the 18th Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP18) at the United Nations headquarters. The meeting focused on the commitment of Arab states to enhance the rights of persons with disabilities.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Minister Al Alawi emphasized Bahrain's commitment under the leadership of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and with the support of the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. The commitment is evident in policies and legislation that ensure dignity and integration into society for persons with disabilities. The minister also highlighted ongoing support for collective Arab efforts in this area.
During the meeting, Minister Al Alawi acknowledged the significant role of the United Nations in advancing disability and social development issues. He praised the partnership between the organization and Arab states, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation and the exchange of successful experiences. He called for intensified joint Arab efforts to support disability rights and develop comprehensive responses while adhering to international commitments.
Minister Al Alawi expressed gratitude to the General Secretariat of the Arab League and its mission to the United Nations for organizing the meeting. He commended the collective Arab efforts aimed at enhancing and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities and noted that these initiatives reflect a shared Arab commitment to advocating for these rights in international forums.
The meeting also served as a platform for preparing for the Second World Summit for Social Development, which will be held in Qatar this November. The summit will address disability and social development issues at both Arab and global levels.