Algerian Minister of State, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ahmed Attaf, participated in a high-level meeting commemorating the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action. The meeting, which took place on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, aimed to review progress made in combating racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance. Attaf emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to reparative justice.
In his address, Attaf stressed that the commemoration of the Durban Declaration's adoption serves as an opportunity to reaffirm the international community's commitment to upholding human dignity, promoting equality, and combating all forms of racism and discrimination. He underscored that fulfilling the Durban Declaration requires genuine political will and collective solidarity, free from selectivity and double standards. Algeria's commitment to fighting racism and promoting human rights was reaffirmed.
On the sidelines of the high-level meeting, Attaf met with United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres. The meeting provided an opportunity to review the state of international relations and discuss key challenges facing multilateralism and the United Nations. The two officials exchanged views on pressing global issues, including the Western Sahara conflict. They discussed ways to advance the UN's efforts to find a political solution to the conflict.
Attaf also held talks with Burkinabé Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Cooperation, Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré. The two ministers reviewed the state of bilateral relations and explored ways to revitalize cooperation between Algeria and Burkina Faso. They discussed regional security and development challenges facing the Sahel region. Strengthening ties between Algeria and Sahel countries was emphasized.
Furthermore, Attaf met with Cuban Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla. The meeting allowed for a review of cooperation between Algeria and Cuba, as well as prospects for enhancing ties in areas of mutual interest. The two officials exchanged views on current international developments. Algeria and Cuba reaffirmed their commitment to South-South cooperation.
In his address to the high-level meeting, Attaf called for a structural and comprehensive approach to reparative justice. He emphasized that this approach is essential for achieving reconciliation, fairness, and mutual respect. Attaf also highlighted the need to ensure that technology and digital space serve humanity, while preventing their use in promoting hate speech, racism, or undermining human dignity and rights.
The commemoration of the Durban Declaration's adoption serves as a reminder of the international community's commitment to fighting racism and promoting human rights. Algeria, through Attaf's participation, reaffirmed its commitment to upholding human dignity and promoting equality. The high-level meeting provided a platform for world leaders to review progress made and discuss challenges facing the global community.
Key points
- Ahmed Attaf calls for comprehensive approach to reparative justice
- Algeria reaffirms commitment to fighting racism and promoting human rights
- Attaf meets with UN Secretary-General, Burkinabé and Cuban Foreign Ministers on sidelines of high-level meeting
