Egyptian Prime Minister Dr. Mustafa Madbouli delivered a speech at the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, emphasizing that development cannot be achieved amidst ongoing conflicts, occupation, and displacement. He represented President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi at the high-level meeting. Madbouli highlighted the importance of the right to development, which is inextricably linked to the right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
Madbouli welcomed efforts to establish a binding international legal framework through constructive dialogue, preserving the essence of the right to development. He noted that Egypt was among the countries that voted in favor of the UN Declaration on the Right to Development 40 years ago. The declaration marked a significant milestone in the evolution of human rights, linking human rights to development and national responsibility to international cooperation.
Despite the progress made, Madbouli acknowledged that a significant gap remains between recognizing the right to development and the actual ability to exercise it. He attributed this to ongoing conflicts, geopolitical and economic crises, and the resulting burdens on developing countries. These challenges threaten to undermine the development gains achieved so far, emphasizing the need for a more equitable international economic and financial system.
Madbouli stressed that creating a favorable international environment is crucial for the effective implementation of the right to development. He called for a more just and equitable international economic and financial system that addresses debt burdens, supports technology transfer, and builds capacity. This includes removing structural barriers that hinder developing countries' ability to achieve their development goals.
Egypt has prioritized translating the right to development into policies and programs that put people at the heart of the development process. Over the past few years, the country has taken significant steps to improve citizens' lives, including developing infrastructure in transportation, energy, and water sectors. Egypt has also invested in healthcare, education, and social protection, while empowering women, youth, and people with disabilities.
The Egyptian government has launched several national initiatives, including the Presidential Initiative "Hayat Karima" (A Dignified Life), which has become a model for local development. This initiative focuses on rural areas and regions with the greatest need, aiming to improve living standards and provide essential services. Madbouli's speech reflected Egypt's commitment to development and its role in promoting human rights.
In conclusion, Madbouli reiterated Egypt's commitment to the right to development and its importance in achieving sustainable development. He emphasized the need for international cooperation and a favorable environment to support development efforts. The Egyptian Prime Minister's speech at the UN General Assembly highlighted the country's efforts to promote development and human rights, both domestically and internationally.
Key points
- Egypt's Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouli emphasizes the need for a favorable international environment to support development efforts.
- Madbouli stresses the importance of the right to development, which is linked to the right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
- Egypt has launched several national initiatives, including the Presidential Initiative "Hayat Karima", to promote local development and improve living standards.