Dr. Mohammad Sabah AlSalem AlSabah's Speech
at the International Conference to Support the Palestinian Economy for the Reconstruction of Gaza
Your Excellency, Mr. President,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Peace be upon you,
Allow me, at the outset, to extend my sincere gratitude to the Arab Republic of Egypt, represented by His Excellency President Mohamed Hosni Mubarak, for the efforts exerted in organizing and preparing for this important conference. It convenes under circumstances that necessitate international solidarity and prompt action to alleviate the suffering experienced by our Palestinian brothers and sisters in overcoming the serious and devastating repercussions of the Israeli aggression on Gaza. I would also like to congratulate the Arab Republic of Egypt on the success of its noble efforts in achieving Palestinian reconciliation, which is considered a fundamental pillar and a necessary step for the success of international efforts to rebuild the Gaza Strip.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
In line with Kuwait's commitment to the just Palestinian cause, His Highness Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber AlSabah, may God protect him, announced during the Economic, Social, and Developmental Summit of Arab Countries, held in Kuwait less than two months ago, the provision of urgent assistance to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) with a sum of 34 million US dollars. This contribution aims to support the agency and assist it in continuing its efforts to alleviate the suffering of the inhabitants of the Gaza Strip. Additionally, Kuwait had previously announced its commitment of 300 million US dollars to support the Palestinian Authority during the donors' conference held in the French capital, Paris, in December 2007.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The concerted efforts of the international community to pressure Israel in accordance with Security Council Resolution 1860, aimed at lifting the blockade and opening the crossings to facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid, including building materials for reconstruction, into the Gaza Strip, will expedite the alleviation of the suffering of its inhabitants. In this regard, we in Kuwait recognize the importance of reaching agreements on the executive mechanisms for the reconstruction program. Through the Gulf Cooperation Council, proposals have been developed and are being discussed at the highest levels, which will contribute to the prompt disbursement of commitments by member states and Arab countries interested in participating in the proposed program.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
As a government and people, Kuwait, mindful of alleviating the suffering of the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip, announces its commitment of 200 million US dollars for the next five years. This donation will be through the Gaza Reconstruction Program, which was announced yesterday in Riyadh. We look forward to the participation of the international community in fulfilling its responsibilities in alleviating the suffering of the Gaza Strip population as soon as possible.
In conclusion, I would like to once again express my thanks to the Arab Republic of Egypt for hosting this important conference.
Peace be upon you.
Sharm El-Sheikh - March 2, 2009