Tunisian Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti recently spoke at the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, highlighting the importance of restoring trust in the organization. He emphasized that this can be achieved through two essential conditions: genuine commitment and comprehensive reform. According to Nafti, a sincere commitment from all nations to respect international law is crucial, along with a thorough reform of the UN that addresses the significant changes the world has undergone.
Minister Nafti expressed concern that without progress in these areas, collective action will remain hostage to narrow geopolitical calculations, and the gap between agreed-upon principles and observed practices will widen. Tunisia believes that addressing the liquidity crisis facing the organization requires all nations to fulfill their financial obligations fully. The country also stresses that reforming the UN should not result in reduced support for developing countries or humanitarian and development programs.
The Tunisian Foreign Minister emphasized that restoring trust in the UN is measured by the organization's ability to ensure respect for international law without selectivity or double standards and provide protection to oppressed peoples. He condemned the ongoing Israeli settlement policies in the West Bank and the blockade of Gaza, calling for the international community to assume its legal, moral, and humanitarian responsibilities in addressing these issues.
Nafti also expressed concern about the escalating situation in the Middle East and its dangerous repercussions on security, politics, and the economy. Tunisia advocates for an immediate ceasefire, a return to dialogue and negotiation, and prioritizing peaceful solutions to existing conflicts. The country emphasizes the importance of freedom of navigation and maritime security, in line with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and customary international law.
Regarding the Libyan issue, Tunisia supports any genuine Libyan effort and UN endeavor aimed at resolving the crisis through a Libyan-led solution, based on dialogue and consensus among various parties. The country reiterated its solidarity with Lebanon and the Lebanese people, stressing its commitment to Lebanon's sovereignty and independence. Tunisia also condemned repeated attacks on Syrian territory and supports the Syrian people's efforts to maintain their country's unity and sovereignty.
Tunisia is following the ongoing conflict in Sudan and reiterated its solidarity with the Sudanese people, calling on the UN to support efforts to achieve an immediate and lasting ceasefire. The country also expressed hope for a comprehensive and lasting political settlement in Yemen that would restore security and stability to the Yemeni people. Tunisia emphasized the importance of African solutions to African problems, promoting African ownership and the role of African mechanisms and institutions in maintaining peace and security.
Finally, Tunisia highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to address the phenomenon of migration, considering its human and historical aspects, and tackling its root causes, including conflicts, poverty, and economic and social disparities. The country also emphasized the importance of establishing a genuine climate justice, given the significant impacts of climate change on developing countries, and promoting responsible use of artificial intelligence technology through inclusive and equitable global governance.
Key points
- - Tunisia's Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti addressed the UN General Assembly, emphasizing the need for genuine commitment and comprehensive reform to restore trust in the organization. - The country advocates for an immediate ceasefire and peaceful solutions to existing conflicts in the Middle East. - Tunisia stresses the importance of African solutions to African problems and a comprehensive approach to address the phenomenon of migration.
