Algeria's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, addressed the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, painting a grim picture of the current international landscape. He warned that the world is at a crossroads, with rising tensions, expanding conflicts, and deepening crises. The minister emphasized that the danger lies not only in the outbreak of wars but also in the normalization of violence and the erosion of respect for international law.
Attaf stressed that the current international situation is marked by a decline in trust among nations, growing polarization, and a resurgence of unilateralism. He argued that the international community must work together to address these challenges and promote a more just and equitable world order. The minister also called for reform of the UN, citing the need for a more representative and effective Security Council.
The Algerian minister emphasized the importance of upholding international law and promoting a culture of peace and cooperation. He condemned the selective application of international law and the use of force to impose one's will on others. Attaf also expressed Algeria's support for the African Union's position on UN reform, which includes increasing African representation on the Security Council.
Attaf addressed several regional issues, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the situation in Syria and Lebanon, and the crisis in Libya. He reiterated Algeria's commitment to a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with a sovereign Palestinian state. The minister also expressed concern about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the West Bank.
Regarding the Western Sahara conflict, Attaf reaffirmed Algeria's support for the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination. He welcomed the UN's efforts to organize direct negotiations between Morocco and the Polisario Front, under UN auspices and with US support. The minister emphasized that a solution to the conflict must be based on international law and respect for the Sahrawi people's rights.
Attaf also discussed the situation in the Sahel region, where terrorism and organized crime are major concerns. He argued that addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that includes security, development, and good governance. The minister expressed Algeria's willingness to work with Sahel countries to address these challenges and promote stability in the region.
In conclusion, Attaf emphasized Algeria's commitment to promoting a more just and equitable world order. He highlighted the country's efforts to build a diversified economy and promote sustainable development. The minister also stressed the importance of investing in human capital and promoting scientific and digital capacities in Africa.
Key points
- Algeria's call for a fairer global system
- Support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict
- Emphasis on upholding international law and promoting a culture of peace and cooperation
