Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, welcomed Mr. Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, at the General Secretariat headquarters, on 15 February. The meeting covered several topics of mutual interest.
Mr. Aboul Gheit expressed his admiration for President Lula da Silva's notable historical career and his impactful experiences beneficial to countries of the South. Furthermore, he conveyed high regard for the robust relations between the Arab world and Brazil across various domains.
Mr. Aboul Gheit emphasised his hope for Brazil's ongoing support for the Palestinian cause on the global stage, particularly amidst the current unprecedented Israeli aggression on Gaza, accompanied by evident international challenges in achieving a ceasefire.
Mr. Aboul Gheit and President da Silva shared a consensus on the global imperative to halt the ongoing war and actively strive for its cessation, with a commitment to safeguarding the lives of Palestinian civilians. They underscored the significance of efforts to deliver sustainable humanitarian aid to Palestinians through an effective mechanism.
President da Silva engaged with the permanent delegates of the League of Arab States' member states, delivering a speech emphasising Brazil's unwavering support for the Palestinian cause. He stressed the importance of pursuing peaceful avenues, employing the United Nations as a conduit, and stressed the urgency of an immediate ceasefire, release of prisoners, and the initiation of political negotiations culminating in the establishment of a Palestinian state.
In his address, President da Silva underscored the imperative of prioritising the reform of international governance and institutions on the global agenda, with a notable emphasis on reforming the United Nations Security Council.
It is noteworthy that President Silva's visit coincided with the convening of the League of Arab States Council at the delegate level during its extraordinary session. The meeting focused on the ongoing Arab efforts to halt the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and address the forced displacement plans. This is particularly urgent due to the serious threats of an invasion of Rafah. The session included the participation of Ambassador Hossam Zaki, the Assistant General of the League of Arab States, permanent delegates, and heads of delegations.
