Hussain Al-Mannai
Today, a high-level dialogue session titled “Shaping the Future: The Role of Humanitarian Diplomacy of the United Arab Emirates in Confronting Global Challenges” was held at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy in Abu Dhabi. The session aimed to discuss current global humanitarian challenges and emphasize the importance of humanitarian diplomacy in intensifying global efforts to alleviate the burden on communities and countries affected by crises, natural disasters, and their humanitarian consequences.
The session was inaugurated with a welcoming address by Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Za’abi, Deputy Director-General of the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy. Dr. Al Za’abi expressed pride in the partnership and collaboration with the sustainable humanitarian organization Deedat, contributing to strengthening the relationship between diplomacy and humanitarian efforts. He highlighted the crucial role of humanitarian diplomacy in addressing contemporary global challenges, stating, “The world has undoubtedly changed in the past two decades, and the challenges we face today are complex. Through engaging in humanitarian diplomacy, we directly confront these challenges, promote positive change through meaningful dialogue and education, and leverage our diplomatic expertise to address crises, alleviate suffering, and enhance the cause of enduring peace across borders.”
The session was attended by ambassadors from Switzerland, Germany, Spain, Ghana, Angola, Kyrgyzstan, the Philippines, as well as diplomatic missions and personnel in the humanitarian and relief sectors.
Dr. Ricard Galíbero, Associate Professor at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, moderated the dialogue session, featuring contributions from His Excellency Arthur Mattli, Ambassador of Switzerland to the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, and Mr. Giuseppe Saba, Executive Director of the International Humanitarian City in Dubai. Mr. Saba is also the founder and former coordinator of the United Nations Humanitarian Response Depots network.
Ambassador Arthur Mattli commended the strong and distinguished relations between the UAE and Switzerland across various domains. He expressed anticipation for furthering diplomatic cooperation to enhance prosperity and progress. He stated, “This dialogue session reaffirms the strength and resilience of bilateral relations between the two countries. It is a valuable opportunity to continue cooperation in various areas of mutual interest. We seek to enhance diplomatic collaboration to address global challenges and achieve sustainable humanitarian diplomatic goals.”
Ambassador Dr. Abdul Salam Al Madani, President of the Sustainable Humanitarian “Deedat” Organization and President of “DISAB,” welcomed the attendees, thanking them for their participation. He highlighted the prominent role played by the UAE in the global humanitarian scene, emphasizing the country’s commitment to compassionate, flexible, and sustainable humanitarian diplomacy.
Dr. Abdul Salam Al Madani stated, “Today, we gather to emphasize the importance of collective charitable and humanitarian work in matters of human concern, with the goal of building an international future that meets our aspirations and upholds the principles of noble values on both national and international levels. The UAE is always an inspiration in supporting the affected and providing assistance to the needy, regardless of color, race, or religion, following the vision and path laid by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in the field of charitable work, humanitarian aid, and volunteering for countries in need.”
The session also aimed to highlight the Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development Conference and Exhibition (DIHAD), organized in Dubai annually for the past 20 years. DIHAD marks its twentieth anniversary with a celebratory edition, aiming to synergize efforts to support various forms of cooperation for the development and improvement of the world.
The “Deedat” sustainable humanitarian organization has continued its two-decade-long journey in serving humanity and peace, launching initiatives in partnership with various organizations and institutions, with a total value exceeding 165 million euros, reaching over 190 countries worldwide.
The discussion during the session emphasized the leading role played by the UAE in addressing global challenges and adopting a sustainable humanitarian diplomatic approach. It focused on the role of global humanitarian diplomacy, the importance of international partnerships, and collaboration in addressing border-crossing challenges.
Deedat has consistently built bridges of hope, providing support and assistance to numerous underserved communities worldwide. The organization’s contributions to sustainable humanitarian actions over the years have played a significant role in serving humanity.
The Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development Conference and Exhibition (DIHAD) is an annual event organized by INDEX Conferences and Exhibitions, a member of the INDEX Holding, with the support of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives Foundation, the Dubai Council for Humanitarian Work Future, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, the UAE Red Crescent Authority, the United Nations, and the International Humanitarian City.