Geneva: The State of Qatar participated in the 58th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, currently underway in Geneva. HE Minister of State for International Cooperation, Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad represented Qatar at the session.
According to Qatar News Agency, Her Excellency addressed the high-level segment of the session, noting its occurrence amid escalating global challenges driven by the persistence and unprecedented spread of armed conflicts, which continue to impact human rights worldwide. She emphasized that these conflicts are marked by blatant violations of fundamental human rights principles and international humanitarian law.
Turning to the situation in Palestine, Her Excellency highlighted the ongoing tragedy of the Palestinian people, noting the high casualty figures in recent aggressions on the Gaza Strip, with many victims being women and children. She condemned the destruction of Gaza's infrastructure and essential services and criticized the blockade and forced displacement affecting millions of Palestinians.
Her Excellency emphasized Qatar's efforts, in collaboration with Egypt and the United States, which resulted in a ceasefire agreement. The agreement facilitated prisoner exchanges, humanitarian aid delivery, and infrastructure rehabilitation in Gaza. She called for intensified international efforts to ensure the safe delivery of aid and highlighted Qatar's initiative to establish a dedicated aid route to supply fuel to the Gaza Strip.
She described the ceasefire as a significant achievement but stressed the importance of both parties adhering to commitments for its sustainability. Furthermore, she reiterated Qatar's rejection of forced displacement of Palestinians and called for a just and lasting peace based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as the capital of an independent Palestinian state.
On Syria, Her Excellency congratulated the Syrian people on their revolution's success and reaffirmed Qatar's support for Syria's unity and integrity. She called for lifting sanctions, facilitating reconstruction, and ensuring Syrians' right to freedom and a dignified life.
Addressing Sudan, Her Excellency reiterated Qatar's commitment to supporting Sudan's unity and independence while rejecting foreign interference. She noted Qatar's ongoing humanitarian assistance to Sudan amidst the conflict.
Her Excellency highlighted Qatar's prioritization of human rights as part of its comprehensive reform policy, rooted in national strategies like the Qatar National Vision 2030. She emphasized Qatar's commitment to international cooperation, hosting conferences, and fostering dialogue to address global challenges.
She concluded by noting Qatar's new membership in the council, expressing the country's commitment to promoting global respect for human rights and supporting the council's efforts to make the world a better place.