Day One: February 20, 2024
Opening Session 11:00 - 13:30
Excerpts from previous opening remarks for the late Mr. Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain, may he rest in peace.
Address by His Excellency Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, Minister of Information and Culture, State of Kuwait.
Address by His Excellency Abdullah Gül, Former President of the Republic of Turkey.
Address by His Excellency Mr. Ammar al-Hakim, Leader of the Wisdom Movement, Republic of Iraq.
Address by His Excellency Dr. Amr Moussa, Former Secretary-General of the Arab League.
Address by His Excellency Mr. Fouad Siniora, Former Prime Minister of Lebanon.
Address by His Excellency Ilir Meta, Former President of the Republic of Albania.
Address by His Excellency Mr. Marzouq Al-Ghanim, Former Speaker of the Kuwaiti National Assembly.
Address by Her Excellency Dr. Nevine El-Kilany, Egyptian Minister of Culture.
Excerpts from previous opening remarks of Mr. Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful,
Prayers and peace be upon all the prophets and messengers of Allah, upon their families and companions.
Honorable Presidents,
Distinguished Ministers,
Esteemed Ambassadors,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon you all.
We are pleased to welcome you all to this global forum, convened today in the presence of this distinguished gathering of leaders, thinkers, academics, and journalists from around the world.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Today's forum does not mark the culmination of the Foundation’s journey, but rather serves as the prelude to the beginning of a path of work contingent upon perseverance and determination.Top of Form
Our meeting today embodies the consensus on a common and noble goal; we all believe in the values of just peace. However, faith alone is not sufficient if not coupled with action. Therefore, we must come together to achieve something great for the preservation of humaneness, starting with spreading a culture of peace. This is only possible if we make just peace a culture of everyday life, infusing our daily language with peace. This is what humanity needs.
O esteemed political leaders,
Representatives of institutions,
High-level experts in international governmental bodies and civil society organizations,
Intellectuals,
You are convening today to engage in sincere dialogue about how to propel the international community along a path of cooperation for just peace.
O leaders of the world,
Please bear in mind that you have come to rebuild the earth and protect those who dwell upon it, so that future generations may thank you and remember you with gratitude and praise.
We must all work together to dry up the sources of terrorism and deal with its roots rather than its fruits. This begins with drying up the sources of injustice, such as the injustice inflicted and continuing to be inflicted upon the resilient Palestinian people in the face of heinous tyranny and repugnant racism. The freedom of this people constitutes a moral challenge to the conscience of the world and the credibility of nations in respecting human rights.
We must not stop; we must continue to remind and to try again, and in the end, by the will of Allah, we will succeed.
Fill the earth with peace, flowers, and radiance. Follow a path of harmony and wear it as a garment to live in safety, prosperity, and brotherhood.
May Allah guide us all.
Thank you, ladies and gentlemen, leaders, and thank you to all the brothers and sisters present.
Peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon you all.
His Excellency Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi
Minister of Information and Culture, State of Kuwait
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful,
Her Excellency Dr. Nevine El-Kilany, Minister of Culture of the Arab Republic of Egypt,
The esteemed brother, Saud Abdulaziz Albabtain, Vice President of the Board of Trustees of the Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain Cultural Foundation,
Honorable Ministers and Excellencies,
Distinguished guests,
Peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon you all.
At the outset, I would like to express my pleasure at this noble gathering on the soil of the Kinanah, in the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt. I highly appreciate the significant effort made to ensure the success of the Third World Forum for the Culture of Just Peace, held under the generous patronage of His Excellency President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, President of the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt.
Distinguished attendees,
I am pleased to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Her Excellency Dr. Nevine El-Kilany, Minister of Culture of the Arab Republic of Egypt, and to the esteemed Mr. Saud Abdulaziz Albabtain, Vice President of the Board of Trustees of the Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain Cultural Foundation, for their constructive cooperation in hosting this world forum and for their excellent organization and arrangement of its proceedings. We hope that its endeavors will culminate in success and prosperity.
It is my honor to convey to you the greetings of His Highness the Amir of the state of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God protect and keep him, and His Highness the Prime Minister, Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, may God preserve him. Together with their sincere wishes for the forum's success and efficacy in serving the interests of our beloved nations.
Distinguished attendees,
I am delighted to commend the pioneering initiatives of the Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain Cultural Foundation, which have embraced all civilizations and demonstrated a commitment to points of convergence with various cultures. Here, knowledge, creativity, and thought converge within the esteemed grounds of this institution.
Here, we recall the achievements of the esteemed late poet, Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain, may God have mercy on him, and his great cultural efforts and constructive contributions. He did not confine himself to reviving poems and honoring poets alone, but also endeavored to promote a culture of peace, cultural guidance, and intellectual influence, fostering cooperation for dialogue and human coexistence on all levels. This broadens the horizons of dialogue, communication, and launches them towards brighter and more inclusive prospects.
Distinguished attendees,
This World Forum, which addresses through its main theme this year the role of peace in promoting and achieving success in various fields of development, presents an opportunity for all of us to communicate, discuss, and exchange views, ideas, and experiences among stakeholders, specialists, intellectuals, thinkers, and innovators, in order that the culture would play its anticipated and desired leading role as a framework for all our efforts, guiding us towards our promising future and serving as a bridge that transcends borders and challenges. The aim is to highlight the significant and essential role of peace in all developmental fields, for there is no development without peace. We look forward to the recommendations of this forum that will serve the interests of nations and peoples, fulfilling their aspirations and hopes.
Esteemed attendees,
All the nations of the world, with their peoples and ideologies, converge on culture, which has the potential to unify all forms of human thought for the service of humanity. Kuwait, in its relations with others, has been committed to promoting peace in various regional and global issues, so that everyone may enjoy a safe environment conducive to development, prosperity, and flourishing. This commitment has been recognized by the United Nations, which named Kuwait as a Center for Humanitarian Action—a badge of honor and pride that reflects Kuwait's diligent efforts in this field. Kuwait has always believed in the necessity of exploring all avenues and policies related to peace, reconciliation, and supporting and guiding youth and future generations, particularly in acquiring knowledge and skills to practice a culture of peace. Kuwait recognizes that culture is the best means to unite nations and foster their advancement.
Esteemed attendees,
Through this Forum, we reaffirm the unwavering and steadfast position of the State of Kuwait, led by its wise leadership and government and supported by its people, in support of the Palestinian cause on all regional and international levels and across various political, media, and humanitarian domains. Our goal is to ensure that the Palestinian people attain their full rights within an independent state with its capital in East Jerusalem, in accordance with international references, foremost among them relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. Furthermore, the Ministry of Information in the State of Kuwait, through its auditory, visual, and electronic channels, is committed to monitoring the Palestinian issue and keeping awareness of the Palestinian cause alive among future generations. We strongly condemn the violations and transgressions suffered by our brothers and sisters in Palestine and call on the international community to immediately put an end to the violations committed by the occupying forces in Palestinian territories.
In conclusion,
I can only express my deepest gratitude and appreciation to the Arab Republic of Egypt for hosting the Third World Forum for the Culture of Just Peace, as well as to the organizers and attendees for all their efforts to ensure the success of this Forum.
May God grant us success in our endeavors.
Peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you.
His Excellency Abdullah Gül
Former President of the Republic of Turkey
Excellencies,
Dear Friends,
Distinguished Guests,
First of all, I would like to express my pleasure to be with you at the Third Forum for the Culture of Peace organized by Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain Cultural Foundation in collaboration with the Egyptian Ministry of Culture.
The Foundation has been playing an important role in spreading the “culture of peace” in our region and beyond. Therefore, I would like to remember with mercy Mr. Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain who recently passed away and congratulate their family, their sons, to carry on his legacy.
On this occasion, let me also express my contentment to be in Cairo after 11 years.
During the term of my presidency and in my all previous capacities, I worked for the strengthening of political and economic relations between Türkiye and Egypt.
Based on our shared history and culture, we marked on so many achievements during that period.
As it was announced during President Erdoğan’s recent visit to Cairo, after a period of stagnation, a new chapter of cooperation has opened for our countries.
I welcome this re-start with my whole heart.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Throughout the human history, the first prerequisite of living in tranquility and prosperity has always been having a peaceful and secure environment.
Meeting this difficult condition has been essential to talk about political and economic development as well as cultural and technological advancement.
It is a fact that today, we live in a world which is fragmented and fragile more than ever. There are calamities on many fronts showing that we are getting away from the culture of peace.
Potential crises can flare up easily as we have already forgotten the high value of this culture. In so many conflicts, we do not negotiate the terms of peace, in contrast, we just get prepared how and when to fight.
To describe today’s global order, I would not say the world is multi-polar. From West to East; from North to South it is multi-polarized. In this multi-polarized atmosphere, it is not easy to talk about internalization of peace culture.
Regrettably, we are surrounded with crises and wars contrary to our expectations.
The recent Russia-Ukraine war has showed us that these crises have severe regional and global effects.
The war in Ukraine has brought the West and the East neck to neck losing all their trust to each other.
When we turn our eyes to the Middle East, we face another heartbreaking picture.
Palestinians are subjected to the massacres and atrocities committed by Israel because its ideologically motivated cruel policies.
Trust to the rules-based international order has been collapsing in Gaza right before the eyes of whole world.
Generally speaking, when it comes to world issues, instead of trust and cooperation, we refer more often to distrust and conflict. Moreover, militarization around the world has reached its record rate.
The world history has full of examples where the security dominated approach failed.
Instead of a security obsessed mind, we need to prepare the conducive climate to provide the proper distribution of our resources.
We need to prevail peace, prosperity and cohabitation. This can be achievable with a strong system of justice.
Such a system can be built up by the establishment of the appropriate political framework.
Good governance is the sine quo non of any political framework. Existence of political and judicial criteria and resilient institutions is essential to design and run any state properly.
Good governance is the only way out for peace, prosperity and development, no matter we are referring to which political regime it is.
It brings an important toolkit with itself such as supremacy of rule of law, respect to human rights, accountability, transparency, merit-based approach, inclusiveness, justice in income distribution and equality of women and men.
Development and peace can be applicable in a sustainable way when good governance integrated approach is emerged.
Dear participants,
As is known, Middle East is one of the regions which needs peace and development the most today.
Although the Middle East has been known to be the cradle of cultural, intellectual and religious enlightenment of the humanity, unfortunately since the last century, it is remembered by chaos, conflicts and wars.
The invasion of Iraq and the war in Syria cracked the backbones of these countries and severely impeded their development. Their people were led to suffering and misery.
They also yielded serious negative outcomes for the entire Middle East.
While the wounds stemming from these crises could not be fully healed, the region is facing another unbearable pain.
What we are eye-witnessing with deep sadness today in Gaza, it is an unseen atrocity and brutality.
It does not fit into any conscience. It hurts not only the heart of Arabs and Muslims but also the whole humanity.
The reason why the events started is obvious.
Israel continued its occupation of Palestinian territories in an illegal and unjust way.
Then it applied a cruel settlement policy in the West Bank despite the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions.
The Israeli authorities forced Palestinians to leave their own land.
This is carried out in a very systematic way.
Throughout the years, they condemned Palestinians to live without dignity.
So under these conditions, it was inevitable to face such a sad and tragic outcome.
Therefore, as UN Secretary General António Guterres courageously mentioned, “it is important to recognize the 7th October attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum”.
What is Israel is doing right now is taking revenge on civilians, innocent women and children.
This is a collective punishment of Palestinian people violating all provisions of the international law.
Until now almost 30.000 Palestinians were killed. 75% of them are women and children. This is a record-breaking and shameful death toll.
Despite the order of the International Court of Justice calling Israel to prevent and punish actions that could lead to or incite genocide in Gaza, Israel does not stop its policy of destruction.
It still bombs the refugee camps and hospitals and plans to start a ground military operation to Rafah where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have been trapped in a search for safety.
So, there is a high potential that the situation will worsen if Israel cannot be stopped right now.
Therefore, the countries who are blindly backing the policies of Israel should realize that this does not bring security to this country.
In contrast, it causes more polarization and spread of hate and antagonism around the world.
In a united and robust way, the international community needs to make understand the Israeli side this clear reality: “if Israel does not change its arrogant obstinate stance, one day it may not escape from its nightmare.”
On this occasion, I would like to underline the unique role of Egypt that has played since the very beginning of the Palestinian issue.
From the very beginning, Egypt has been involved in the efforts for the comprehensive resolution of the Israeli-Arab problems.
With its accumulated experience, it has spent an outstanding effort for finding a diplomatic solution between Palestinian and Israeli sides.
After the 7th October attacks, again Egyptian authorities showed a responsible and collaborative stance.
There is no doubt that the developments also directly affected its national security and its national economy.
Türkiye, also, has been using all its energy to provide humanitarian aid to the Palestinians and to contribute to finding a long-term diplomatic solution to the ongoing war.
Together with the friends from the region, it plays a dynamic role in the quest for a peaceful and just resolution of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Ladies and gentlemen,
After so many pains, tears and huge sacrifices, at least one thing has come to the light.
Peaceful and just solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict can “only be achieved” through two States “living side-by-side in peace and security”.
The whole world has recognized the indispensability of this two-state solution to ensure peace and security for Palestinians, Israelis and the entire Middle East.
So, this common recognition should be the compass of the international community to pressure Israel for accepting the terms of this solution.
We need a permanent and unconditional ceasefire for sure in Gaza right now.
There is no doubt for this.
However, a ceasefire will not be enough, if we do not start to work on designing the parameters of a two-state solution.
After so many sacrifices and immense losses, there is also the need of a fresh thinking from the Palestinian side.
All Palestinian fractions need to sit together, discuss and agree on a political exit strategy.
Therefore, achievement of the political unity among them is essential.
Such a credible, trustworthy and fresh leadership could lead the negotiations with a high level of representation capacity.
Only such a leadership can show its strength on the negotiation table and realize a historical mission, with the additional moral ground that has been gained.
As the friends of Palestinians, we need to help them to spend their time and energy in this direction.
Distinguished participants,
Under these circumstances, the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative, which has been endorsed by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and notably also embraced by Iran, still represents a viable path forward.
This Initiative does not only pave the way for the establishment of a Palestinian state with its boarders dating back to 1967 and with East Jerusalem as its capital.
It gives also a golden opportunity to Israel for the establishment of normal relations with the Arab countries in a context providing a huge cooperation potential with them.
If this dream comes true, this will also contribute to wiping out the root-causes of radical movements operating at different corners of the world.
The high price of war situation has been paid.
So, now it is time to come of darkness into light.
While concluding my remarks, I convey my gratitude once again to the Foundation and the Egyptian authorities for organizing such a timely Forum bolstering the importance of “culture of peace”, which is needed more than ever.
Thank you very much.
His Excellency Mr. Ammar al-Hakim
Leader of the Wisdom Movement, Republic of Iraq
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful,
Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds, and may peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), his family, and his companions.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you.
I am pleased to participate with you at the Third World Forum for the Culture of Peace from the land of Kinana... the land of Arabism and peace... the Arab Republic of Egypt... the fraternal and dear state to the hearts of all Iraqis.
Hoping that the outcomes of this substantial forum for the Foundation of the late great Sheikh Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain Cultural Foundation... may bring forth what is good for our peoples in the region and the world.
This gathering represents a precious opportunity to remember an extraordinary Arab figure who left a significant mark in the field of Arab culture and literature and built a vast system of Arab, Islamic, and international relations.
We much miss our dear brother, the honored Sheikh Abdulaziz Albabtain in this noble gathering, and we find solace in the presence of his noble son, Mr. Saud Abdulaziz Albabtain, hoping for his success in continuing the path and preserving the great legacy left by our beloved deceased.
Peace is not merely the absence of war and conflict, but it is a state of security and stability that begins with personal and social relationships, extending to broader international horizons.
At its core, peace means preserving human dignity, living peacefully with others, and promoting understanding and coexistence among different cultures and religions.
Discussing the culture of peace first requires evoking its fundamental pillars and activating them to achieve this peace.
It is impossible to talk about peace without a genuine will that confirms the need for peace.
And this will cannot be implemented without an effective capacity to create this peace.
Furthermore, peacebuilding itself... cannot produce lasting peace without serious mechanisms to preserve this peace.
These three pillars for achieving peace—actual need, the ability to craft peace, and mechanisms for its preservation and sustainability—cannot be complete without a developmental process for peacebuilding and its practical, effective, and appropriate sustainability... Permanent peace is what future generations demand to ensure its perpetuation and preservation.
Just peace entails the protection of human rights and the guarantee of basic freedoms for all.
It encompasses the right to life, freedom, and the pursuit of happiness and dignified living.
In summary, the just peace, as we see it, is far-reaching and broader than the absence of conflicts; it reflects a state of balanced, stable living based on principles of justice, benevolence, tolerance, and respect for human rights.
Today, we are in dire need to reinforce the principles of peace and implement its actual pillars in our region and the world through enhancing opportunities for comprehensive development and achieving its foundations... Peace is the real key to the development of our peoples and countries, and the reverse is also true...
Development cannot be separated from peace... There is a complex relationship between the two concepts... If we want comprehensive development in building individuals, societies, families, and governments, passing through all economic, political, and environmental sectors...
Then it is essential to establish and implement peace first... Development reflects a comprehensive set of social and political values... These values collectively establish and reinforce a culture of peace.
The population increase the world witnesses today, especially in our Arab and Islamic region, makes development more of a pressing necessity than merely a concept or culture...
Additionally, demographic and environmental challenges are factors that cannot be ignored, as rapid population growth, migration, water scarcity, and climate change have become essential and fundamental issues requiring urgent attention to ensure the future of peace.
Today, there is no alternative but to accelerate comprehensive development efforts and combat the obstacles hindering the achievement of desired development.
Youth represent not only the future of our nation but also the active and influential present in building a world of greater peace and prosperity.
They are the ones most capable of enhancing bridges of communication between cultures, religions, and civilizations. Through education and cultural exchange, they can play a pivotal role in promoting understanding and coexistence among different communities.
Investing in youth and empowering them means building a solid foundation for a more peaceful and harmonious world. Let us work together to provide the opportunities and resources our youth need to become leaders of peace today and tomorrow.
There is no sovereignty, freedom, or independence in political decision-making, industry, agriculture, and all sectors in our Arab and Islamic countries unless there is comprehensive and real development in our societies and countries.
One prominent example of sustainable development in the Arab world is the "New Administrative Capital Project" in Egypt, which serves as an example of significant efforts towards achieving sustainable development and promoting peace through a professional plan to alleviate the pressure on Cairo, which suffers from severe congestion and environmental repercussions. The city's design vision ensures efficiency in resource use, such as optimal water reuse and solar energy utilization.
There are several Arab projects that are excellent examples of sustainable development, including:
Kuwait's projects in renewable energy and infrastructure, such as the Silk City project, which aims to reduce reliance on oil and improve the quality of life for residents.
Qatar's projects in hosting major sporting events as a means to promote sustainable development.
Jordan's Disi Water Conveyance Project.
Morocco's projects in wind and solar energy.
Masdar City in the United Arab Emirates.
Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.
Iraq's Grand Faw Port and Development Road.
In this dynamic context, it is essential for the development process in our countries to be characterized by the following three principles:
Firstly, it should be directed towards meeting non-material needs, and not limited to the materialistic concept. Poverty today does not only mean a need for food and medicine, but true poverty lies in the poverty of the educational, values, and ethical systems. What threatens our people the most are those deviant cultures that are alien to our Arab and Islamic values.
Secondly, development should originate from within the community itself, relying on its human, natural, and cultural resources. The people of a place are the most knowledgeable about its affairs. We do not seek cover-ups or justifications that enable others to interfere in our affairs under the guise of development, for secondary and foreign purposes.
Thirdly, development should be based on structural transformations in the regional and international economy, society, and environment, in order to be radical, comprehensive, and genuine. It is difficult for a country to achieve development while it is within a turbulent and unstable regional environment. It is also impossible to discuss development amidst the sound of bullets and the drums of war, with their devastating and catastrophic effects.
Achieving this requires, first and foremost, diagnosing the impediments that hinder reaching the thresholds of development and realizing it. Weaknesses and shortcomings in the education sector, fragility in the administrative and banking systems, the escalation of societal violence, neglect of developmental and investment agreements between countries and institutions, and instability in the regional system politically, security-wise, and economically, are among the fundamental barriers preventing the continuation of the development process in our countries.
In Iraq, we have suffered greatly from the effects of stalled development, and we still endure some of its consequences despite the significant steps taken over the past two decades, including those achieved during the tenure of our brother Al-Sudani in particular.
Wars, years of siege, and the culture of extremism, radicalism, and violence were obstacles to Iraq's progress. Today, by the grace of God and with the support of the Iraqi people, their political leadership, and their wise authorities, we have managed to overcome many of these obstacles and their destructive effects on individuals and society to a large extent.
Today's Iraq differs from its past, and it is on its way towards leadership in vital and strategic fields, God willing.
Iraq has managed to break the grip of terrorism and extremism and unify its components in managing a successful democratic political process. Democracy lies at the heart of development, and it is inappropriate to discuss development without a democratic system based on peaceful power rotation.
Iraq has also managed to reclaim a significant portion of its self-sufficiency in the economic field, food security, and many basic needs. It is on track to achieve significant leaps in investment and industrial development by providing the necessary infrastructure for it.
Iraq has also succeeded in distancing itself from regional and international alignments by adopting a policy of positive neutrality without compromising the values of the Arab and Islamic nation and its religious and moral constants. However, today we face a major challenge, one that all our Arab and Islamic countries share: the threat to the security of our region and the destabilization of peace in it, after it has achieved significant successes in restoring stability.
Esteemed attendees,
Today, we are gathered to discuss one of the most pressing issues in our Arab world in confronting the challenges to peace.
At the heart of these challenges, internal and regional conflicts are intensifying. Unfortunately, we have witnessed how civil wars and sectarian conflicts can devastate our societies from within, and how regional conflicts weaken our relationships with our neighbors.
Extremism and terrorism continue to undermine our efforts towards peace, and we cannot overlook the need to address these challenges fundamentally and comprehensively.
What our Palestinian people are facing in Gaza, the West Bank, and other Palestinian cities, in terms of genocide under illogical pretexts by the Zionist entity and amidst disturbing international silence, is one of the foremost challenges to establishing a culture of peace and driving development in the region.
We appreciate the tremendous efforts being made by the Arab Republic of Egypt, especially those led by President Sisi, and by many other countries in the region, including Iraq, to reach a comprehensive solution to stop this humanitarian tragedy and to find a just solution that upholds the dignity and natural rights of the Palestinians on their occupied lands.
We cannot imagine real development and lasting peace while occupied territories exist, rights are denied, and destructive and reckless policies affect the security of our peoples and nations.
The Palestinian cause is not merely a political slogan; rather, it is an issue that touches the dignity of Arab and Muslim citizens. It cannot be overlooked or diluted with efforts and methods that deviate from the principles of dignity and humanity.
I call upon, through this international forum, the consideration of sustainable development based on genuine and enduring peace in our Arab and Islamic region as the foremost issue for our countries, governments, and legislative councils, each according to its political system, environment, and priorities.
We should witness prioritized practical steps in the outcomes of the regular meetings of the Arab League and Arab and Islamic organizations, in order that this development be integrated into regional decision-making processes and local implementation laws within a path of securing the future of our generations and preserving their interests and opportunities for a free and dignified life.
The road to peace is not easy, but it is necessary. It requires serious commitment and continuous effort from all of us - governments, parliaments, institutions, and individuals alike. We are confident in our collective efforts as we strive to achieve the long-awaited peace in our Arab world and beyond.
May God protect our Arab and Islamic peoples from all harm and adversity.
May God safeguard our Arab and Islamic youth from the influence of foreign cultures and their destructive ethical phenomena, because He is the Hearer, the Responder to prayers.
Peace be upon you, and may God's mercy and blessings be upon you.Top of Form
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His Excellency Dr. Amr Moussa
Former Secretary-General of the Arab League
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
Your Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is with great pleasure that I express my gratitude for the gracious invitation extended to me by my brother Saud Abdulaziz Albabtain to participate in this Third World Forum for the culture of Just Peace, organized by this Foundation in collaboration with the Egyptian Ministry of Culture and under the patronage of His Excellency the President of the Republic.
The passing of the founding father and dear friend was truly a shocking and painful blow. However, the wise decision to support the initiative and continue it—the initiative of just peace and the promotion of its culture—was a prudent choice that is reflected in this resolve to continue the cultural journey initiated by the deceased, which works on spreading the culture of peace based on and elevating documented human values, and to consolidate the foundations of justice based on the established rules of international law, particularly international humanitarian law, in order to ensure that peace has substance, stability, and the ability to invoke commitment and respect.
The convening of this forum at this critical time in the region, due to the ongoing massacre perpetrated by the Israeli occupation against the inhabitants of Gaza Strip, along with the collective punishment inflicted upon them, in addition to the genocide crime warned against by the International Court of Justice and still pending, necessitates a serious discussion among us within the framework of this forum and this seminar. Such discussion is essential for the discourse on promoting just peace to be meaningful, while simultaneously affirming the role of the Arab and international civil society in peacebuilding.
What is happening now in the occupied territories, whether in Gaza, the West Bank, or in the Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, is not merely a political matter or crimes against human rights; it has a deeply rooted and unmistakable cultural dimension. The ongoing aggression in the occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip has not only targeted but also desecrated mosques, churches, museums, and historical symbols.
What is happening in the occupied territories is not only aimed at displacing Palestinians, destroying their homes and villages, and preventing the establishment of their state, but also at the destruction of Palestinian cultural memory and its creative artistic and literary expressions. Therefore, the forum is undoubtedly called upon to examine this painful reality and the serious cultural challenge it poses, urging cultural entities and relevant institutions at the international level to confront it, in order to preserve peace among different cultures, and to emphasize the role of these institutions in preserving the cultural and civilizational history of various global communities, including the Palestinian community.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The clash of civilizations persists and transitions from a dangerous stage to even more perilous phases. Israel's policies, practices, and the linguistic segregations of its officials—most of which are documented and referred to in the important submissions made by South Africa before the International Court of Justice last month—have made it clear that there is not only a cultural dimension but indeed a cultural aggression against Arab, Islamic, and Palestinian civilization itself. However, the issue of the clash of civilizations is not confined solely to Israel and its policies; it extends to what is happening in some Asian and European countries against Islam and Muslims. This is something that institutions working towards achieving just peace must continue to monitor and address. I believe that the issue of the clash of civilizations and the encroachment on Islamic civilization should be a permanent item on the agenda of this institution, the Albabtain Cultural Foundation for Just Peace, and on all Arab institutions working in this field.
I have great confidence in the institution of peace culture in which we are gathered today, and I also have great confidence that what I have presented to you, and what we have heard in the important interventions preceding this speech, is indeed the essence of what the late founder believed in. He spoke about it in his opening address at this seminar, emphasizing that the Palestinian issue is a matter of conscience, security, culture, and development, all of which are areas where peace cannot be achieved without addressing them.
We are faced with a great task and immense challenge that we witness daily in the suffering of our brothers in Gaza, and in the promises that we see, hear and listen to that there is a cultural and political dimension of peace that will come. Political promises have failed us before in many previous negotiations. There is no longer room to believe in promises. Now is the time to declare our stance on the Palestinian state. It is neither appropriate nor acceptable to prioritize humanitarian issues now and delay addressing the issue of politics and the Palestinian state. We must be fully confident that as Arabs, we are speaking with one voice—that the establishment of a viable Palestinian state is the goal we must acknowledge today. The details can be worked out in negotiations, but the issue of the establishment of a Palestinian state is not something that can be postponed.
The events of October 7th are quite clear, and there are many interpretations of them, but the true interpretation is that it was a reaction to the Israeli policy of oppression against the Palestinians. This is something we must all stand against. The Secretary-General of the United Nations was right when he said, "What happened on October 7th did not come out of nowhere." Indeed, it did not come out of nowhere; it came as a result of Israeli military occupation and mistreatment of the Palestinian people. We must now support the Palestinian stance and do so in a practical manner, not just through words, speeches, or statements. Today is a day for action; this moment is the moment for real action from all of us to confront the significant challenges facing the Arab and Islamic nations, and indeed, the entire global civilization.
Thank you.
His Excellency Mr. Fouad Siniora
Former Prime Minister of Lebanon
Excellences,
Brother Saud Albabtain, Chairman of the Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain Foundation,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Yes, there is no development without peace, and there is no peace without justice. This is the solid concept of the late, esteemed, benevolent, and great educator, Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain, who envisioned establishing this Forum based on that concept and out of knowledge and appreciation. High ambition, wisdom, and sincere appreciation have always been attributes of this unforgettable man. With high ambition, he worked tirelessly throughout decades of his blessed life in nurturing the Arab poetry, both ancient and modern, through his forums and conferences, which served as platforms for revival, innovation, and the creation of excellence and progress. Many of us appreciate both ancient and modern Arab poetry, but truly, the poet who revived and revitalized it was Sheikh Abdulaziz, bringing back its spirit and vitality, propelling it to unprecedented heights. Among his latest achievements, in 2023, was the awarding of the Albabtain Cultural Prize to the Jordanian poet Abdullah Amin Abu Shmeis.
The passion of our late poet is inseparable from his dedication to the advancement of Arab culture in various fields. He viewed the issue of Arab advancement as both a significant choice and a considerable challenge. It is a choice because nations cannot thrive or renew themselves without progress in national, political, social, economic, and institutional domains, which implies advancement in all aspects of contemporary life. Therefore, the call for advancement and the effort towards it were the concern of all the leaders of our Arab nation, foremost among them being the loyal Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain, who always remained faithful to his country and to the Arab nation.
Dear brothers and sisters,
If Arab advancement is indeed an irreplaceable choice, it is also a significant challenge for three reasons: Firstly, the numerous obstacles and impediments that have surrounded this nation since the mid-twentieth century until today.
Our nation did not know the necessary peace for dignified living before it became necessary for sustainable development that creates new life. We witness and observe the war of collective punishment, the barbaric annihilation of the Palestinian people perpetrated by the Israeli enemy on Gaza and Palestine. However, this is not the only war our nation suffers from; indeed, security, military, political, and economic unrest spreads across many Arab regions from the ocean to the Gulf.
As for the second reason why advancement poses a challenge, it lies in the pressures and coercions exerted by the regional and international environment on our Arab nations.
I am not one who is accustomed to conspiracy talk. However, I have undertaken responsibilities that placed me at the heart of events, where I witnessed conspiracy up close and on multiple levels, including the local, regional, and primarily international levels. It is natural, given this situation, that national, patriotic, and economic advancement is neither easy nor readily available. It requires a vision, determination, and leadership committed to facing its challenges and achieving success.
The third and final reason why advancement poses a challenge lies in the hindrance caused by certain policies, as well as the improper or inappropriate practices that have been prevalent in many of our Arab nations, and that we are responsible for in our economic, educational, cultural, political, security, institutional, and religious orientations. These practices have often led not only to the mismanagement of national states but also to a distortion of the very idea of the nation-state itself.
Ladies and gentlemen,
I am accustomed to saying in crises that constructive, creative, and bold national and humanitarian willpower can turn challenges into opportunities. It is difficult to talk about opportunities amid the engulfing darkness surrounding us today. Nevertheless, let us look for avenues of light amidst the darkness. We see that the whole world is turning towards us as Arabs, wanting us to play a role in the Palestinian cause to restore its Palestinian character and Arab identity after a long absence.
This absence has various reasons, some of which I have mentioned earlier as challenges. However, the greatest challenge lies in our meeting and coalition. The Italian writer and playwright Pirandello wrote a play titled "Six Characters in Search of an Author." The characters Pirandello tried to bring together and reconcile are similar to what the leaders of our nation should gather around and strive for, thereby assuming their responsibilities to pave the way for an integrated Arab future free from wars and futile confrontations, characterized by justice and respect for the present and future of the Arab people. These are necessary conditions for achieving peace and stability.
If others inquire about our role, it is incumbent upon us to fulfill it, considering it a crucial task and duty that we must perform out of necessity and as an act of faith. It is not just a role that comes and goes; it is also a right that should be coupled with entitlement, as the great thinker Constantin Zureiq used to say. This is so that the necessity of existence and destiny becomes both a task, a choice, and a duty at the same time, inexorable paths that we must follow.
Some may argue: But those who seek to confront us now are indeed part of the reasons for our current situation, and this is true. However, the rampant turmoil in Palestine and beyond, involving friends, allies, non-friends, and non-allies, is increasing in spread and encirclement. This requires us to seize a single opportunity to liberate ourselves from fragmentation and discord, to confront the proliferation of conflicts and disputes that afflict us, and to free ourselves from the coercion of intellectual and cultural conflicts between civilizations, as well as from the realms of neglect and marginalization. We are the first to suffer from wars and the prevailing state of chaos, and we are also the first to benefit from stability and peace. It is an opportunity, a task, and a responsibility, in terms of both presence and effectiveness, and it may be an opportunity that does not recur.
Advancing this task in Palestine, despite its priority, is not limited to it because there are other Arab countries struggling in a sea of darkness due to interventions, poor policies, or improper practices. It is a right that we qualify for and deserve in Palestine, and then this entitlement becomes an umbrella for gradually creating Arab national units that transcend interventions and, before that, the illusions of power and hegemony.
Is it a utopian or idealistic project? Neither this nor that, because the alternative is the realized destruction in Palestine and beyond, and the continuation of conspiracy and intrusion to overthrow the remaining oases of stability and self-sufficiency in our Arab region, not to mention jeopardizing the future of millions of our youth in the Arab world.
Brothers and sisters,
There is no development without peace, and there is no peace without justice. Thus, our first duty is to make peace. For peace to become stable and sustainable, its starting point and objective must be the realization of justice. As for development, it is purely political. It is primarily a national decision and a strategic decision that several Arab countries have fortunately made in recent years. I know what I'm talking about: In Lebanon, the main obstacle to progress was not only external factors but also, to a large extent, internal resistance to reform. This resistance has led to the current destruction and collapse due to internal division, shortcomings, administrative and political corruption, which allowed external interference to penetrate and worsen the situation to what it is today.Top of Form
Brothers and sisters,
Allow me to reiterate: It is both an opportunity and a challenge.
It is an opportunity because extremist adventurism, from here and there and everywhere, has reached its peak crisis - and if we exacerbate it - and has revealed itself as a danger to the world. In its crisis and exposure, it has shown - whether knowingly or unwillingly - the validity of our choice in Palestine and throughout the Arab world, as a possible and fair choice for the entire world. It is about them having their homeland, freedom, and independent sovereignty, as emphasized by the Arab Peace Initiative at the Beirut Summit in 2002.
And it is a challenge because if we do not act proactively, we will fail to turn rights into entitlements, not only in Palestine, but also in Lebanon and in every country of our Arab nations which still suffer from regional and international interventions, as well as from ongoing internal resistance to reform, hindering the implementation of proper governance, institutional, constitutional, and legal accountability, as well as peaceful power transition.
Dear beloved,
We are celebrating two occasions, not just one. The first is the memory of the esteemed Sheikh Saud Albabtain, a man of progress, reconstruction, and prosperity. The second is that, as the great departed wished for us, we gather in Egypt, in the land of civilization that has led to great Arab progress. Insha'Allah, it will emerge from its economic hardship with the right vision, determined will, courage, and wise leadership, remaining a source of hope for all Arabs.Top of Form
And as I began, I conclude: There is no development without stability and peace, and there is no peace without justice. Let us stand on these two feet: the foot of peace and the foot of development, so that the challenge becomes a real opportunity, and our role becomes a task and entitlement indeed.
My beloved ones,
There are no favorable winds for those without sails. Let us start by building the sails of justice and entitlement.
Peace be upon you, and may the mercy and blessings of Allah be upon you.
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His Excellency Ilir Meta
Former President of the Republic of Albania
«Peace is not something you wish for; it’s something you make, something you do, something you are, and something you give away.» - John Lennon
Honorable Vice-President of the Board of Trustees of “Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain Cultural Foundation”, Mr. Saud Abdulaziz Albabtain,
Honorable President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, His Excellency Mr. Abdel Fattah El-Sisi,
Distinguished guests,
It is my honor and privilege to participate in the Third World Forum for Culture of Just Peace.
I express my gratitude to the President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, His Excellency Mr. Abdel Fattah El-Sisi for hosting this event and especially to the “Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain Cultural Foundation”, which, after the sudden and unexpected passing away of Mr. Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain, the Chairman of the Albabtain Cultural Foundation, decided to continue with the organization of the Third World Forum for Just Peace.
This Forum is not only an homage to the cultural legacy and aspirations for promoting the Culture of Just Peace of the Late Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain, May his Soul rest in Eternal Peace, but also the continuation of his charitable work, ideas, principals and humanitarian values.
«Building bridges of understanding between diverse communities is essential for fostering a culture of peace and harmony.»- said Mr. Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain.
And the World Forums for Just Peace, organized by the “Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain Cultural Foundation”, do exactly this, by bringing together distinguished personalities and scholars from different backgrounds and countries of the world.
The culture of just peace is a set of values, attitudes, modes of behavior, and ways of life that reject violence and aim to prevent conflicts.
Just peace acknowledges that peace cannot be achieved through coercion or domination, but requires genuine reconciliation, dialogue, negotiation and cooperation among conflicting parties, individuals, groups, and nations.
We cannot achieve peace without respect for human rights and human dignity, without promoting social justice and economic equality, without ensuring that all individuals have equal access to their basic rights: the rights to life, liberty, and security.
Unfortunately, we are living today in a world full of conflicts, wars, injustices and inequality.
The dramatic situations we are witnessing in Ukraine and Gaza are examples of how fragile peace can be. This is a dramatic time not only for Ukraine and Gaza, but for the entire world.
It demonstrates once again that war can erupt at any time, anywhere in the world.
Sadly, the figures prove it. Only in the year 2022, there were 55 violent conflicts across the world and the number of deaths in active conflicts doubled that year.
While for 2023, according to the researchers of the Uppsala Conflict Data Program, this dark trend will continue.
Meanwhile, according to the World bank, it is estimated that 80% of humanitarian need is driven by violent conflicts, where unfortunately women and children are the most affected.
Furthermore, conflict is “a major cause of the reversals in economic growth in many low- and middle-income countries”.
If current increasing trends of violent conflicts continue, the OECD estimates that by 2030 more than half of all the world’s poor people will be living in countries affected by a high level of violence and as a consequence they will be even poorer.
Nowadays, we are witnessing an increase in the global tensions between the USA, Russia and China, which makes it difficult to organize UN operations.
There is also a return to the international conflicts with two states fighting each-other, which is quite worrying for the international peace.
While geopolitical contestation is at its highest peak, since the end of the Cold War, a wave of transformation processes can be observed in many countries across all regions of the world, such as the decline of quality of democratic regimes, rise of nationalist and often authoritarian movements and leaders, increasing restrictions on civil society actors (“shrinking civic spaces”) etc.
At the moment, it is estimated that nearly ¾ of the world’s population live in countries with an autocratic regime.
Furthermore, we are living in a world where environmental degradation and resource scarcity can exacerbate conflicts, particularly in resource-rich but economically marginalized regions.
The climate is heating up every year and unfortunately, it seems like we are getting used to accepting the breaking of negative records of the rising temperature of our planet Earth.
We all feel the impact of climate change in our countries. 2023 has been a year with extreme heatwaves, sea level rise, flooding disasters, hurricanes and storms which have affected millions and millions of people around the world, but especially those in developing countries.
At least 12,000 people - 30% more than in 2022 - lost their lives due to floods, wildfires, cyclones, storms, and landslides globally in 2023. (Save the Children)
While according to The World Health Organization (WHO), as many as 828 million people, or about 10% of the global population, are affected by hunger.
Economic shocks, extreme weather events, and conflicts like the war in Ukraine have restricted global food supplies, driven up prices, and presented a threat to vulnerable populations and countries.
The future unhappily, seems grimmer. It is estimated that climate change and biodiversity loss will increase food prices by 20% for billions of low -income people, which as a consequence will create more instability and insecurity, not only within these countries, but for the rest of the world too.
There is no dispute that peace is one of the main pillars of the United Nations’ Agenda 2030. This Agenda states that without sustainable development there can be no peace, and without peace there can be no sustainable development.
Data shows that peace is ultimately “a key determinant” for all the threats and challenges addressed by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), “from chronic diseases to child poverty to environmental degradation”.
Unluckily, it seems like only 15% of the Sustainable Development Goals agreed in 2015 are due to be met by 2030.
There are some reasons for this, which include: violent conflicts around the world, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine which brought energy and food insecurity for millions of people; COVID 19 which slowed down the economic development; environmental degradation and climate change which bring insecurity and instability.
Poverty, inequality, injustice, lack of access to resources, environmental degradation and conflicts are common underlying factors that need to be tackled for both just peace and sustainable development to be achieved.
How can we work together to achieve just peace?
First. Political institutions and governance systems play a critical role in promoting just peace by ensuring accountability, transparency, and the rule of law.
Democratic governance, respect for human rights, and inclusive political processes are essential for building trust, fostering civic engagement, and promoting social cohesion.
Political reforms that address corruption, promote good governance, and protect the rights of marginalized groups can help prevent conflicts.
Second. We need strong, transparent institutions which are the guardians of justice and accountability.
By investing in the capacity-building of institutions, from judiciary systems to public service agencies, we consolidate peace and lay the groundwork for long-term stability.
Third. Just peace has a strong implication for social development. Social justice lies at the heart of any truly peaceful society.
For this we need to eradicate discrimination, to promote equality and empower marginalized communities and make it possible for every person to fulfill their potential.
Fourth. Culture plays a pivotal role in promoting just peace by fostering understanding, empathy, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
True peace requires the cultivation of a culture of tolerance, understanding, and dialogue—one that embraces diversity as a source of strength rather than a cause for conflict. I am proud to say that Albania is an example to the world for its religious harmony and tolerance.
Finally. Economic inequality and exclusion are often root causes of conflict and instability. To promote just peace, it is crucial to address economic disparities and ensure inclusive economic policies that benefit all members of society.
Investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, promoting entrepreneurship, supporting small businesses, supporting sustainable development and responsible resource management can help reduce poverty and inequality, mitigate environmental conflicts and promote long-term economic stability.
In conclusion, I would say that we should never take peace for granted. We should work tirelessly across all sectors and disciplines and we need to engage all stakeholders, including governments, civil society organizations, grassroots movements, and local communities to achieve just peace and make a better world.
To accomplish this, we should put in life the teaching of our dearest Albanian Mother, Saint Theresa, who said «Peace begins with a smile».
Thank you!
His Excellency Mr. Marzouq Al-Ghanim
Former Speaker of the Kuwaiti National Assembly
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
All praise is due to Allah, Lord of all the worlds.
May peace and blessings be upon the noblest of messengers, our trustworthy Prophet Mouhammad (PBUH), and upon his family and all his companions.
Brothers and sisters,
Distinguished guests,
Peace be upon you, and Allah’s mercy and blessings.
We gather with you today for the third edition of the World Peace Forum under the theme: "Peace for Development." On such an occasion, I cannot help but remember the role of the late founder of the World Peace Forum, Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain. He was truly an international figure, a peacemaker, and a man of development. Our meeting in this cultural venue stands as a testament to his legacy.
May Allah bless you, dear uncle Abdulaziz Albabtain.
By your life, the true calamity is not the loss of wealth,
nor the death of a sheep or a camel.
But the real calamity is the loss of a noble man,
whose death brings sorrow to many.
Sisters and brothers,
By the grace of Allah, I have had the honor of representing the Kuwaiti people in parliament for nearly eight legislative terms, serving as Speaker in three of them.
During this period, I delivered numerous speeches and addresses at international forums such as the United Nations, the Inter-Parliamentary Union, and various friendly and fraternal parliaments. I have also delivered speeches before Their Majesties, Highnesses, and Excellencies, the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, among other occasions.
But I must be honest with you: I found it incredibly difficult to write my speech today. The difficulty arises because the words and letters of the Arabic language, despite their vastness, may fail to adequately express the appreciation this esteemed figure deserves.
And what an esteemed figure he was... Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain.
Therefore, allow me not to speak to you today about the uncle, nor will I talk about Abu Saud the esteemed gentleman, or the businessman, or the writer, poet, and hunter, or the great philanthropist, advocate for peace, intellectual, Arab nationalist, benefactor, patriotic zealot, and compassionate father.
These are qualities that most of those present here know well and have experienced significantly, and esteemed speakers before me have already discussed them. If I were to ask each of you, I would find that you all have a personal story with this extraordinary man.
Today, I want to talk about the young Abdulaziz Albabtain, so that the younger generation can learn from his life and draw lessons from it.
His story should remain a source of inspiration. Indeed, it is a source of inspiration, pride, and honor, not only for his family but for all of us.
We much we need role models today!
May Allah bless your soul, dear uncle Abdulaziz Albabtain. What a remarkable life!
I want the younger generation to imagine with me the young Abdulaziz Albabtain as he navigated the alleys of Al-Murqab and Al-Qibla, a young Kuwaiti boy with a pale face and a frail build. The uncle, may he rest in peace, said that when he started his first job, he weighed only 45 kilograms. Despite that, he worked in three jobs simultaneously.
Who says work is a shame?
Is there anything more beautiful than diligence and perseverance for an honest living? And can there be development without hard work and dedication?
The young Abdulaziz Albabtain did not inherit wealth, yet he was profoundly proud of the legacy he received from his father—a reputation of integrity and good character.
He was not as enamored with money as he was with the spirit of community, love, and the sense of one family that existed among people during times of poverty.
The young Abdulaziz Albabtain and his peers would step aside on the path out of respect and esteem whenever an elder passed by in their neighborhood, treating every elder as a father to all. He was truly captivated by the morals of the past generations.
If only you were with us today, uncle Abdulaziz Albabtain, just to see that everyone in this hall considers you a father and a patriarch... If only you were here to give us another chance to clear the way for you in respect, reverence, and appreciation of your esteemed stature.
Can you imagine with me the accomplishments of this slender young man?
Since when has a person's weight or physical build been a reflection of their will?
Abdulaziz Albabtain embodies the resilience of the Kuwaiti character,
the Kuwaiti character that strives to navigate through all changes without compromising its principles,
the Kuwaiti character built on a harmony between the faith of its convictions and the modernity of science,
the Kuwaiti character that prioritizes national interest above all else, striving for an honorable and honest livelihood,
the Kuwaiti character that is proud yet open, engaging with others without losing itself or becoming enamored, respecting other nations and engaging in dialogue without assimilation or antagonism.
Are these not the virtues of peacemakers?
This self-made man has left us, and here we are gathered today in this global cultural edifice that he left us on the edge of Kuwait next to the governance palace—a testament preserved by this slender young man. A magnificent library that has safeguarded the Arabic language and Arabic poetry. Glory to you, Abdulaziz Albabtain.
Life is not just about the breaths you take; it's about earnestness and action.
Uncle Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain has departed, leaving us the trees of peace he planted across the world.
Abdulaziz Albabtain has passed, bequeathing us thousands of books he saved from oblivion, and we pray that this knowledge, which benefits many, may intercede for him.
Uncle Abdulaziz Albabtain has left behind thousands of scholarships he established, and we ask God that these may be counted in his deeds' favor.
Abdulaziz Albabtain has left us, leaving behind a noble progeny, dear brothers, and virtuous sisters who follow in his footsteps.
The true son of Al-Murqab has passed away.
At Oxford University, three verses he wrote are inscribed on its walls, bearing witness to his legacy and virtues.
On a personal level, I knew him as a father, an advisor, a guide, a supporter, an advocate, especially in times of hardship. You know how it is with politicians—sometimes their star shines, and sometimes its brilliance dims. Sometimes they are applauded, and sometimes they are attacked. But Uncle Bu Saud was particularly remarkable during crises. When the going got tough, his calls or encouragement came through, providing an extraordinary amount of hope and the strength to start anew.
His favors to me are undeniable except by the ungrateful, and no matter what I say about him, I will not be able to do him justice.
In conclusion, I say...
We have many peace projects and numerous peace agreements, but few are true peacemakers.
We have diverse development plans and multiple developmental ideas, but few of us truly embody development as a way of life.
We have many merchants and businessmen, but Abdulaziz Albabtain was one of a kind.
Glory to you, Uncle Abu Saud, for we have indeed toiled after you.
Her Excellency Dr. Nevine El-Kilany
Egyptian Minister of Culture
Excellency Minister Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, Minister of Information and Culture of the brotherly State of Kuwait,
Excellencies Ministers and Ambassadors,
Honorable guests of Egypt,
Ladies and gentlemen,
May God bless your morning with all goodness.
I am delighted and honored to welcome you all at the beginning of this prestigious world forum, which is honored by the gracious patronage of His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Republic of Egypt. This important international forum is organized by the Albabtain Cultural Foundation in collaboration with the Egyptian Ministry of Culture, represented by the Supreme Council of Culture. At this juncture, I am particularly pleased to extend a warm welcome to our esteemed guests from various countries around the world. Welcome to Egypt, and I wish you a pleasant and joyful stay, God willing.
It is indeed our pleasure that the Third World Forum for the Culture of Just Peace is being held in Cairo in partnership with the Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain Cultural Foundation in the brotherly State of Kuwait, as it is one of the most important cultural institutions in the Arab world. This Foundation, which was founded and nurtured by its late founder and patron, Mr. Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain, who passed away a few weeks ago, has laid the foundations and dedicated its successes to him. The Forum is the first event to be held after his departure, and he was keen for Cairo to host it. This underscores the special place Egypt held in the heart of the late great man.
Ladies and gentlemen,
If this Forum takes peace as a main pillar of its activities and proceedings, then culture plays a pivotal role in promoting a culture of peace. It shapes the system of values, beliefs, and behaviors that constitute the identity of any society. Therefore, promoting a culture of peace requires continuous and concerted efforts to support this system in creating an environment that values dialogue, coexistence, and tolerance. This can be achieved through arts, literature, cinema, and music, which contribute to raising awareness of the importance of peace, respecting human rights, peaceful coexistence, and building bridges of communication between cultures.
Cultural policy in Egypt is based on promoting values of tolerance, diversity, and acceptance of others, consistent with the directions of the Egyptian state as reflected in Egypt's Vision 2030. The cultural axis of this vision emphasizes the creation of "a positive cultural values system in Egyptian society that respects diversity and differences."
In order to achieve this vision, cultural policy in Egypt places great emphasis on promoting a culture of peace and enhancing tolerance and dialogue between cultures. This is done through various events and activities provided by the ministry and its different sectors.
The ministry produces dozens of theatrical works and organizes hundreds of music concerts, opera performances, as well as book and visual arts exhibitions. In addition, numerous seminars, lectures, intellectual salons, and conferences are held, attracting prominent intellectuals, thinkers, academics, and creatives. All of these activities encourage dialogue and the dissemination of a culture of tolerance and acceptance of others, while promoting awareness against bigotry and discrimination, and enhancing values of social justice, respect for the law, human rights, and fostering the building of bridges of communication between cultures.
The efforts to spread this culture and arts are not limited to Greater Cairo and major cities in Egypt. Rather, the ministry's sectors and bodies, each in its field, work to disseminate this culture and arts across all parts of Egypt, including its rural areas, urban centers, coastal regions, and even reaching its remote areas. Cultural production in these regions focuses on creating artistic works that reflect the lives of citizens, their customs, traditions, dialects, aspirations, and ambitions. This is based on the belief that affirming identity through arts rooted in these environments and focusing on excellence in customs, traditions, and dialects, reinforces a profound concept of diversity and cultural richness, which enriches and strengthens society.
As part of disseminating this culture, the Ministry of Culture organizes numerous international cultural and artistic events. Foremost among these is the Cairo International Film Festival, one of the oldest film festivals in the Arab world, as well as the Experimental Theater Festival, the Arabic Music Festival, the Cairo International Book Fair, and the Cairo Biennale for Visual Arts. Each of these events attracts hundreds of intellectuals, artists, and creatives from various countries, aiming to promote values of peace, tolerance, and acceptance of others.
The Egyptian Ministry of Culture regularly participates in numerous Arab cultural events. It consistently contributes to the Carthage International Festival in Tunisia, the Jerash Festival for Culture and Arts in Jordan, the Al-Qurain Cultural Festival in Kuwait, the Sharjah International Book Fair in the United Arab Emirates, and others.
Various cultural events are organized in collaboration with numerous Arab cultural institutions. Last September, Cairo hosted the launch ceremony of the twelfth Arab Cultural Development Report in collaboration between the Supreme Council of Culture and the Arab Thought Foundation in Beirut. Shortly after, Cairo will host the Sharjah Cultural Recognition Forum in partnership between the Supreme Council of Culture and the Sharjah Culture and Media Department for the fourth consecutive year.
Perhaps the most recent and significant event organized within the framework of cultural cooperation is the Cairo International Book Fair in its fifty-fifth edition. This edition witnessed an unprecedented participation in terms of the number of countries involved, estimated at seventy, as well as the number of participating publishing houses, reaching 1200. Finally, the attendance numbers approached nearly 5 million visitors in less than two weeks, achieving a record-breaking figure never before recorded.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
As we take pride in this collaboration with cultural institutions across all our sister Arab countries, we look forward to further cooperation in the future in areas of joint production, publishing, and translation. We also anticipate the organization of events, exhibitions, and festivals that all contribute to the establishment of a culture of peace, tolerance, and coexistence.
The organization of this conference in partnership between the Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain Cultural Foundation and the Supreme Council of Culture, representing the Ministry of Culture, is a tangible embodiment of Arab cultural cooperation that we always strive to enhance. In this context, we emphasize the importance of cooperation between the Egyptian Ministry of Culture and Arab cultural institutions through the exchange of expertise and coordination in organizing cultural events, thereby strengthening Arab cooperation in the cultural field.
In conclusion, I would like to express my sincere thanks and appreciation to all those involved in organizing this forum from the Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain Cultural Foundation and the Supreme Council of Culture.
I would like to extend a warm welcome to our esteemed guests of Egypt and wish you all a fruitful and successful conference, by the grace of God.
Thank you all, and peace be upon you.