CAIRO: The League of Arab States underscored on Wednesday the importance of international and regional cooperation and the exchange of knowledge to effectively combat natural disasters. League assistant secretary general for economic affairs, Ambassador Ali Al-Malki, addressed the second ministerial congregation, saying that Arab countries are facing a plethora of natural disasters, including drought, desertification, sand storms, floods, forest fires, hurricanes, earthquakes, landslides, climate change, as well as manmade disasters.

Curbing such catastrophes should be a topmost priority, stated Al-Malki, to limit both economic and human losses. He called the situation in the Gaza Strip the catastrophe of the century, saying that the Zionist occupation has committed vile aggressions on Palestinian people, subjecting them to a series of horrific war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity. In this regard, he affirmed the league’s unwavering stance on the Palestinian issue, as it has been an Arab focal case with repetitive demands of lifting the siege, allowing in humanitarian aid, and warning against forced eviction of Palestinians.

While the Arab bloc has been politically committed to combating disasters, more mechanisms of implementation are still needed, especially in light of recent achievements, he added. Al-Malki spoke of the bloc’s efforts in building regional and international partnerships and contributing to boosting cooperation in the field, saying that efforts have culminated in the 2030 Arab strategy. The ministerial meeting aims to examine developments, present Arab contributions and discuss projects. — KUNA