The spokesperson for the Secretary-General of the UN Stephane Dujarric has affirmed that the partnership and co-operation between the UN and t Qatar is highly productive and deep.
He said Qatar plays a very active role within the UN community. Qatar not only hosts UN offices within its borders but also actively engages in diplomatic efforts. Moreover, Qatar has a consistent track record of fostering international co-operation and has made substantial contributions across multiple domains.
Dujarric also highlighted, in an interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), that Qatar is one of the largest donors and supporters of UN agencies. He added that its assistance has a positive impact on all those in need and who the UN seeks to assist. In this regard, he noted that the UN handles about half of the humanitarian aid that is distributed worldwide, and it would not be possible without the active participation and voluntary contributions like those provided by Qatar.
In reference to the participation of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani in UN meetings, the UN spokesperson emphasised the importance of every member state, out of the 193 in the UN, being represented at the highest level in the General Assembly. This representation signifies Qatar's commitment to the work of the General Assembly and the actions of the UN, as well as its support for diverse participation, which is strengthened when member states are actively involved.
Regarding Qatar's role in contributing to global peace and its significant efforts in facilitating diplomatic relations and geographical connectivity, Dujarric pointed out that HE Qatar's Permanent Representative to the UN Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif al-Thani, played a key role in the political declaration on Sustainable Development Goals. He anticipated positive developments in the adoption of this declaration, demonstrating Qatar's collaborative efforts, alongside Ireland, the other co-facilitator.
Another noteworthy contribution Qatar made was hosting talks concerning Afghanistan, which involved discussions between the Taliban and the international community. This diplomatic effort showcased Qatar's diplomatic prowess and its ability to leverage its geographic location to facilitate dialogue in the aftermath of approximately two decades of conflict in Afghanistan.
When addressing the necessity of finding effective solutions to the world's crises, the UN spokesperson conveyed his belief that there is no alternative. He emphasised that the present time is marked by significant uncertainty and multipolarity, with different nations pursuing diverse directions. This raises concerns about potential divisions among various groups of nations. The UN spokesperson stressed that the world cannot ignore the challenges it faces, including climate change and the Covid-19 pandemic. He asserted that member states and leaders must be capable of making compromises and reaching agreements to navigate the way forward.
With regard to the work of the UN Security Council, it was noted that significant divisions within the Council have hindered its effectiveness. Ongoing tensions among some of the world's most powerful nations have caused operational challenges. In this context, it was emphasised that countries like Qatar can play a pivotal role in bridging gaps and bringing people together.
The UN spokesperson emphasised the importance of the forthcoming call by the Secretary-General of the UN, Antonio Guterres, during the General Assembly meetings. The Secretary-General is expected to call for efforts to prevent destruction and loss of life in many parts of the world. He warned about the critical times the world is going through and underscored the significance and role of international institutions like the UN.
Regarding the effectiveness of these institutions, it was suggested that they need to be more representative of the current world. The UN, its Security Council, and international financial institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund were established after World War II when many current member states did not exist or were not yet independent. Consequently, there is a need for deep reform of the international system, requiring agreement among member states.
On the issue of the climate crisis, the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General stressed the necessity of comprehensive solutions to the climate crisis, which poses a threat to humanity. He highlighted the importance of reducing carbon emissions and the need to collaborate with the private sector. While awareness of climate issues has grown worldwide, there is often a lack of political courage at the leadership level to take significant action. While challenges persist at the national level, there are places where decisions can only be made at the national level. (QNA)
