Bahrain participates in meeting of Arab ministers on disability rights
New York, June 10 (BNA): Osama bin Saleh Al Alawi, Minister of Social Development and Chairman of the 44th session of the Council of Arab Ministers of Social Affairs, chaired a meeting of Arab ministers and heads of delegations held on the sidelines of the 18th Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP18) at the United Nations headquarters.
The minister emphasised the Kingdom of Bahrain's commitment, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to enhance the rights of persons with disabilities. This commitment is reflected in policies and legislation that ensure dignity and full integration into society, alongside ongoing support for collective Arab efforts in this domain.
He highlighted the vital role played by the United Nations in advancing disability and social development issues. The minister commended the fruitful partnership between the organisation and Arab states.
Minister Al Alawi emphasised the importance of regional cooperation and the exchange of successful experiences, calling for intensified joint Arab efforts to support the rights of persons with disabilities and develop comprehensive and sustainable responses, while ensuring adherence to relevant international commitments.
The minister expressed appreciation to the General Secretariat of the Arab League, represented by its mission to the United Nations, for organising this meeting. He commended the collective Arab efforts aimed at enhancing and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities.
The minister noted that these initiatives reflect a shared Arab commitment to advocating for these rights and coordinating related positions in international forums, particularly in light of preparations for the Second World Summit for Social Development, scheduled to be held in Qatar this coming November, which will address disability and social development issues at both the Arab and global levels.
