Riyadh: United Nations Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres emphasized that Saudi Arabia hosting the 11th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) symbolizes the significance of holding the forum in a land of great religious importance. This event coincides with the 20th anniversary of UNAOC's establishment.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Guterres made these remarks during his address at the opening of the forum, held at King Faisal Conference Hall in Riyadh. The event is presided over by Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah and features extensive international participation from leaders, officials, and representatives of international organizations. Guterres highlighted the world's current crossroads between division and dialogue, urging for political courage to build bridges between cultures and religions. He called for an end to violence in conflict areas and emphasized the need to empower youth and women in peace processes.
UN Under-Secretary-General, High Representative for UNAOC, and UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia Miguelngel Moratinos stressed the importance of enhancing communication among peoples and addressing Islamophobia. He also pointed to the role of digital innovation and youth investment in fostering positive change, while underscoring the need to improve conditions for women and children and boost their participation in public life.
Minister of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration of Spain, Elma Saiz Delgado, highlighted that gender equality and inclusive dialogue are essential to achieving true multilateralism. She reiterated Spain's commitment to supporting UNAOC principles and promoting a culture of respect and peace, particularly amid global humanitarian challenges.
Former Prime Minister and former Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, Binali Yildirim, stated that UNAOC is essential to counter hatred and ignorance. He called for transforming dialogue into concrete actions through education, responsible media, and the involvement of youth and women.