UAE Affirms Commitment to Peace and Diplomacy at UN General Assembly
Minister of State Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar articulated the Emirates' principled approach to global challenges, emphasising de-escalation, bridge-building and the peaceful settlement of disputes at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
The United Arab Emirates has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to transforming global challenges into opportunities for peace, development and prosperity, as articulated by Minister of State Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar during the High-Level General Debate of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Speaking with measured resolve, Minister Al Marar outlined the Emirates’ principled foreign policy approach, grounded in de-escalation, diplomacy and dialogue, alongside full respect for state sovereignty and international law. This philosophy, he emphasised, has long underpinned both domestic and foreign policy, guiding the nation through periods of regional transformation and global uncertainty.
Addressing the occupied Emirati islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb and Abu Musa, the Minister reiterated the UAE’s consistent call for peaceful settlement through either direct negotiations or recourse to the International Court of Justice. Simultaneously, he stressed the imperative of maintaining freedom of navigation and protecting vital supply chains and energy flows in accordance with international maritime law.
The Emirates’ role as a trusted international mediator received particular emphasis, with Minister Al Marar highlighting twenty-six successful mediations that facilitated the exchange of nearly eight thousand prisoners between Ukraine and the Russian Federation. This humanitarian achievement underscores the UAE’s commitment to resolving conflicts through dialogue rather than confrontation.
Regarding Gaza, the Minister articulated the UAE’s comprehensive vision, encompassing support for the international framework to end hostilities, implementation of President Trump’s peace plan, Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, Hamas disarmament, and advancement towards a two-state solution. He condemned Israel’s escalation in the West Bank, settlement expansion and settler violence in unequivocal terms, whilst reaffirming the UAE’s position as the largest humanitarian aid provider to Gaza.
The statement emphasised the importance of reforming regional and international multilateral institutions, particularly the United Nations and its Security Council, to strengthen their capacity for preventive diplomacy. The incoming Secretary-General should prioritise activation of mediation mechanisms at the earliest signs of crisis, rather than responding only after conflicts have fully emerged.
Looking forward, Minister Al Marar highlighted the UAE’s investments in artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, healthcare and education, alongside its strengthened position as a responsible energy sector leader. The Emirates’ upcoming co-hosting of the UN Water Conference with Senegal represents a commitment to addressing water scarcity through innovation and international cooperation.
The Minister concluded by reaffirming the UAE’s dedication to moderation, rejection of violence and extremism, and investment in human potential, extending partnership to both regional and global partners in pursuit of unity over division.
Source: WAM News Agency