The upcoming Arab Summit in Bahrain carries immense hope and anticipation. We pray for this gathering to mark a pivotal moment in Arab history, and to yield tangible solutions that enhance co-operation among Arab nations.
Imagine this summit of Arab League nations as a chance for a true reunion. A chance for Arab countries to join hands, stand united and finally achieve that solidarity we’ve all been longing for.
It’s time to accelerate the political and economic integration of the Arab world – something we should have done long ago. Let’s reignite the mechanisms of joint Arab action and move forward together. The ongoing crisis in Gaza will undoubtedly be at the forefront of discussions.
We desperately need clear and unified Arab positions that bring all countries together. It’s almost the perfect coincidence that Bahrain, a nation synonymous with peace and security, is hosting the summit during this time of conflict. Bahrain’s commitment to the Palestinian cause is undeniable.
Its unwavering support for a two-state solution, with an independent Palestinian state including East Jerusalem as its capital, positions it as a neutral facilitator, and talks on de-escalation held on Bahraini soil could gain significant momentum.
After all, Bahrain has a long history of advocating for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the two-state solution. Bahrain’s unwavering support for a sovereign Palestinian state on the borders of June 4, 1967 is a testament to its commitment to Arab identity and history.
Let’s also emphasise the importance of prioritising His Majesty King Hamad’s steadfast commitment to peace at the summit. We’ve all seen His Majesty’s relentless endeavours to foster peaceful coexistence on the global platform.
We expect the summit will resonate with his urgent plea for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza, as well as the unrestricted distribution of vital humanitarian assistance. The summit presents a valuable learning opportunity for all Arab nations.
We’ve seen first-hand how economic development can flourish when we invest in our people. By nurturing skilled workforces and implementing balanced policies that address economic, social and environmental concerns, we can unlock a new era of prosperity. Let’s draw inspiration from each other’s successes and create a united front against challenges like political instability and terrorism.
Bahrain’s hosting of the summit can be a powerful symbol of the Arab world’s collective will to tackle regional challenges.
Here’s the perfect opportunity to forge a truly effective strategic partnership. We can’t ignore the reality that past Arab summits haven’t always delivered on their promises. Since the Arab League’s founding in 1945, some summits highlighted existing divisions instead of fostering unity.
We’ve heard a lot of talk about joint Arab action, shared destiny and economic integration, a unified currency, and a common market – but progress has been slow. The success of this summit hinges on robust leadership.
The vision articulated by His Majesty, along with his counterparts in the GCC states, provides a blueprint for a more secure Arab future. Their readiness to offer support to countries like Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Iraq and Tunisia underscores their commitment to regional stability.
This collaborative ethos is precisely what is required to pave the way for a new era of Arab national security. The summit presents an invaluable opportunity to elevate Arab partnership to new heights. '
To realise this, we must undergo a fundamental shift in our approach to regional issues.
Arab nations must collectively recognise the strength in unity. By coming together to foster strong, independent states, we can ensure a future characterised by prosperity, freedom, social justice and the autonomy to chart our own course.
akram@fp7.com