The Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, has reaffirmed the organization’s steadfast commitment to peace, human rights, and humanitarian principles, while unequivocally rejecting violence and armed conflicts fueled by historical grievances, injustice, despair, and frustration, particularly across the Middle East. The remarks were delivered on his behalf by Ambassador Ahmed Rashid Khattabi, Assistant Secretary-General and Supervisor of the Media and Communication Sector at the Arab League, during the 10th United Nations Alliance of Civilizations Global Forum held in Cascais, Portugal. The forum convened under the theme “United in Peace: Restoring Trust, Reshaping the Future—Reflecting on Two Decades of Dialogue for Humanity,” bringing together global leaders, diplomats, and civil society representatives to advance intercultural understanding and conflict prevention.
The intervention by the Arab League at this high-level United Nations gathering underscores the organization’s active diplomatic role in shaping international discourse on peace and coexistence. It also reflects a broader regional consensus, championed by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its partners, that sustainable security cannot be achieved through military escalation alone but requires dialogue, mutual respect, and institutional cooperation. As the world confronts overlapping crises—from Gaza to Sudan and beyond—the Arab League’s message in Cascais carried particular weight, signaling that Arab states remain committed to multilateral engagement and the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter.
Context and Background
Why does the Arab League’s reaffirmation of peace and human rights matter at this particular moment in global affairs? The 10th UN Alliance of Civilizations Global Forum marked two decades of international efforts to bridge cultural and religious divides, making it a fitting platform for the Arab League to articulate its vision. Ambassador Khattabi’s address, delivered on behalf of Secretary-General Aboul Gheit, situated the Arab League’s strategic goals within the forum’s broader mission: preventing violence, countering narratives that promote extremism and hatred, and safeguarding respect for religions and their symbols.
The League of Arab States, founded in 1945 and headquartered in Cairo, comprises 22 member states and serves as one of the world’s oldest regional organizations. Over the decades, it has evolved from a primarily political forum into a multifaceted institution addressing humanitarian affairs, cultural dialogue, economic integration, and conflict mediation. Its participation in the UN Alliance of Civilizations reflects this evolution, positioning the Arab world as a proactive contributor to global peacebuilding rather than a passive observer of international developments.
Secretary-General Aboul Gheit’s statement also came against the backdrop of intensifying regional tensions. The humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, ongoing conflicts in Sudan and Yemen, and persistent instability in parts of the Levant have tested the limits of regional and international diplomacy. In this environment, the Arab League’s emphasis on trust-building and dialogue represents both a moral stance and a practical strategy aimed at de-escalation and long-term stability.
Key Details of the Arab League’s Position
What specific commitments did the Arab League outline during the Cascais forum? Ambassador Khattabi conveyed Secretary-General Aboul Gheit’s affirmation that the League is committed to fostering a culture of peace, strengthening mutual trust, and promoting dialogue in line with its strategic objectives. These efforts, he noted, align directly with the goals of the UN Alliance of Civilizations Global Forum, which seeks to prevent violence and counter extremist narratives that fuel hatred and contempt for religions.
The address drew particular attention to the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza. Aboul Gheit highlighted the devastating impact of continued bombardment, forced displacement, obstruction of humanitarian aid, and the suspension of operations by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). He further noted that residential buildings and public facilities have been targeted, including educational institutions, cultural and historical landmarks, and places of worship—destruction that carries profound consequences for civilian populations and the region’s shared heritage.
These remarks reflect the Arab League’s consistent position that humanitarian law must be upheld and that civilian infrastructure must be protected in all circumstances. By raising these concerns at a UN forum dedicated to civilizational dialogue, the League linked the immediate humanitarian crisis to the broader imperative of preserving cultural coexistence and preventing the radicalization that often follows prolonged suffering and perceived injustice.
International and Regional Impact
How does the Arab League’s stance resonate beyond the Middle East? The Cascais forum gathered representatives from governments, international organizations, religious institutions, and civil society across multiple continents, providing a global stage for the Arab League’s message. By emphasizing dialogue over confrontation and trust-building over division, the League reinforced its role as a bridge between the Arab world and the broader international community, particularly Europe and the Americas.
Regional reactions have underscored the importance of coordinated action. The Arab League’s call for humanitarian access in Gaza and its support for UNRWA’s mandate align with positions taken by numerous international bodies, including the United Nations and the European Union. This convergence creates diplomatic momentum for renewed peace efforts and reinforces the principle that regional organizations have a vital role to play in complementing global governance frameworks.
For Saudi Arabia and its Gulf neighbors, the Arab League’s engagement at the UN level complements their own diplomatic initiatives, including Vision 2030’s emphasis on global partnership and stability. A unified Arab voice on peace and human rights strengthens the region’s collective bargaining position in international forums and supports efforts to attract investment, tourism, and cultural exchange—all of which depend on perceptions of stability and forward-looking governance.
Economic and Strategic Significance
Why should economic observers and international investors pay attention to diplomatic developments like the Arab League’s forum participation? Stability is the foundation of economic growth, and the Arab League’s consistent rejection of violence sends a signal that regional stakeholders prioritize de-escalation and predictable international engagement. For global markets, this translates into reduced risk premiums and greater confidence in long-term investment horizons across the Middle East.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as the world’s largest oil exporter and the driving force behind Vision 2030, has a direct stake in regional stability. Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation—anchored in diversification, tourism expansion, and technology investment—requires a peaceful neighborhood and constructive international relations. The Arab League’s reaffirmation of peace principles thus supports the strategic environment needed for Saudi Arabia’s giga-projects, including NEOM, the Red Sea Project, and Qiddiya, to attract global partners and visitors.
Moreover, the focus on countering extremism and promoting interfaith respect aligns with Saudi Arabia’s own efforts to present a moderate, open face to the world. These efforts enhance the Kingdom’s soft power and create new avenues for cultural and economic diplomacy, from hosting international sporting events to expanding religious tourism through the Hajj and Umrah seasons.
Vision 2030 Alignment
How does the Arab League’s message intersect with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030? Vision 2030 is built on three pillars: a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation. Each depends on peace, dialogue, and international cooperation. The Arab League’s commitment to fostering a culture of peace and strengthening mutual trust mirrors the Vision’s emphasis on moderation, tolerance, and global engagement as drivers of sustainable development.
Saudi Arabia has consistently advocated for dialogue as a means of resolving regional disputes, hosting numerous diplomatic initiatives and supporting humanitarian efforts across the region. The Kingdom’s leadership in Vision 2030 includes a strong focus on quality of life, education, and cultural heritage—values that are undermined by violence and extremism. By aligning with the Arab League’s stance, Saudi Arabia reinforces its role as a stabilizing force and a partner for peace in the Middle East and beyond.
As the international community reflects on two decades of the UN Alliance of Civilizations, the Arab League’s reaffirmation of peace and human rights serves as a timely reminder that dialogue remains the most viable path to coexistence. For Saudi Arabia, this alignment is not merely diplomatic rhetoric but a core component of its long-term strategy to build a prosperous, secure, and globally connected nation. The Kingdom will continue to work with its Arab partners and the wider world to turn these principles into tangible progress for the region’s people.
20 Questions
Q1. What did the Arab League Secretary-General reaffirm at the UN Alliance of Civilizations Global Forum?
A1. Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit reaffirmed the League’s commitment to peace, human rights, and humanitarian principles, and its rejection of violence and armed conflicts fueled by historical grievances, injustice, despair, and frustration, particularly in the Middle East.
Q2. Who delivered the Arab League’s remarks at the Cascais forum?
A2. Ambassador Ahmed Rashid Khattabi, Assistant Secretary-General and Supervisor of the Media and Communication Sector at the Arab League, delivered the remarks on behalf of Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit during the forum’s 10th edition.
Q3. Where and when was the 10th UN Alliance of Civilizations Global Forum held?
A3. The forum was held in Cascais, Portugal, in November 2024. It convened under the theme “United in Peace: Restoring Trust, Reshaping the Future—Reflecting on Two Decades of Dialogue for Humanity.”
Q4. What is the theme of the 10th UN Alliance of Civilizations Global Forum?
A4. The theme is “United in Peace: Restoring Trust, Reshaping the Future—Reflecting on Two Decades of Dialogue for Humanity,” emphasizing dialogue, trust-building, and conflict prevention over two decades of international efforts.
Q5. What strategic goals did the Arab League highlight at the forum?
A5. The Arab League highlighted its commitment to fostering a culture of peace, strengthening mutual trust, and promoting dialogue, aligning these goals with the objectives of the UN Alliance of Civilizations Global Forum to prevent violence and counter extremism.
Q6. How does the Arab League aim to counter extremism and hatred?
A6. The League aims to counter narratives that promote extremism, hatred, and contempt for religions and desecration of their symbols, through dialogue, education, and international cooperation, in line with its strategic goals and UN forum objectives.
Q7. What humanitarian situation did the Arab League draw attention to?
A7. The Arab League drew attention to the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, resulting from continued bombardment, forced displacement, obstruction of humanitarian aid, and the suspension of UNRWA operations, affecting civilians and infrastructure.
Q8. What is UNRWA and why was it mentioned?
A8. UNRWA is the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees. It was mentioned because its operations have been suspended, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and limiting essential aid to affected populations.
Q9. What types of facilities were targeted according to the Arab League?
A9. Residential buildings and public facilities were targeted, including educational institutions, cultural and historical landmarks, and places of worship, according to the Arab League’s statement at the UN forum in Cascais.
Q10. Why is the Arab League’s message significant for the Middle East?
A10. The message is significant because it reinforces regional commitment to peace and dialogue amid ongoing conflicts, promotes de-escalation, and supports international efforts to address humanitarian crises and prevent extremism in the Middle East.
Q11. How does the Arab League’s stance align with UN objectives?
A11. The Arab League’s stance aligns with UN objectives of preventing violence, promoting dialogue, and countering extremism, as reflected in the UN Alliance of Civilizations Global Forum’s mission to restore trust and reshape the future through intercultural understanding.
Q12. What role does Saudi Arabia play in supporting these peace efforts?
A12. Saudi Arabia supports peace efforts through diplomacy, humanitarian aid, and Vision 2030 initiatives that promote moderation, tolerance, and global engagement, reinforcing the Arab League’s message and contributing to regional stability and economic development.
Q13. How does the Arab League’s position relate to Vision 2030?
A13. The Arab League’s position aligns with Vision 2030’s pillars of a vibrant society, thriving economy, and ambitious nation, as peace, dialogue, and international cooperation are essential for sustainable development and Saudi Arabia’s global partnerships.
Q14. What economic impact could the Arab League’s peace message have?
A14. The peace message could reduce regional risk premiums, boost investor confidence, and support economic diversification and tourism growth, particularly in Saudi Arabia, by signaling stability and commitment to dialogue over conflict.
Q15. How does the Arab League engage with international organizations?
A15. The Arab League engages with international organizations like the UN through forums, diplomatic initiatives, and partnerships, as demonstrated by its participation in the UN Alliance of Civilizations Global Forum to promote peace and human rights.
Q16. What is the UN Alliance of Civilizations?
A16. The UN Alliance of Civilizations is a United Nations initiative launched in 2005 to improve understanding and cooperation among nations and peoples across cultures and religions, and to counter the forces that fuel polarization and extremism.
Q17. Why is dialogue important in resolving regional conflicts?
A17. Dialogue is important because it builds trust, reduces misunderstandings, and creates pathways to peaceful resolution, addressing root causes such as injustice and despair that can fuel violence and extremism in the region.
Q18. How does the Arab League’s message affect international perceptions of the region?
A18. The message positively affects perceptions by showcasing the Arab world’s commitment to peace, human rights, and dialogue, positioning the region as a proactive partner in global stability and countering negative stereotypes.
Q19. What future steps might the Arab League take to promote peace?
A19. The Arab League may continue participating in international forums, supporting humanitarian initiatives, advocating for dialogue, and coordinating with member states and global partners to address conflicts and promote a culture of peace.
Q20. How can the international community support the Arab League’s peace efforts?
A20. The international community can support by engaging in dialogue, providing humanitarian aid, respecting international law, and partnering with the Arab League on conflict prevention and intercultural initiatives that reinforce stability and coexistence.
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