Second Deputy Speaker highlights HM King's summit speech

Algiers, May 3 (BNA): Ahmed Abdulwahed Qarata, Second Deputy Speaker of the Council of Representatives, Head of Bahrain’s parliamentary delegation, spoke at the 38th Executive Committee meeting of the Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union (AIPU), held in Algeria.

He said that the speech delivered by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa at the opening of the 33rd Arab Summit (Bahrain Summit) in Manama is a crucial framework for understanding the challenges facing the Arab world and the need to enhance joint Arab action and solidarity.

Qarata emphasised Bahrain’s support for the Palestinian cause and a just, comprehensive peace. He condemned the ongoing Israeli aggression on Gaza, stressing that Israel’s actions, including targeting civilians and blocking humanitarian aid, violate international law and threaten international peace and security.

He called on the United Nations and international organisations to act urgently to end the war on Gaza, ensure humanitarian access, and prevent further harm to civilians.

Qarata also underlined the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, including the establishment of an independent state on the June 4, 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital and the right of return for refugees. He rejected any actions that undermine these rights and highlighted the outcomes of the Bahrain Summit and the Arab Summit on Palestine held in Cairo.

He noted the region’s worsening developmental challenges due to instability and the long-standing unresolved Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

Qarata called for a comprehensive review of the AIPU and the development of a modern parliamentary framework aligned with current developments and regional needs.

He also underscored the importance of further developing Arab parliamentary diplomacy and cooperation, particularly in energy, climate, AI, economy, education, health, youth, and digital transformation, and promoting legislation to preserve Arab identity among youth.