RIYADH: Saudi Arabia called for greater focus on the human rights situation in Palestine and other occupied Arab territories at a UN meeting in Switzerland.
The Kingdom also reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
This was part of the speech delivered by the president of the Saudi Human Rights Commission and head of the Kingdom’s delegation, Hala Al-Tuwaijri, at the high-level segment of the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.
Al-Tuwaijri said Saudi Arabia has made significant reforms in human rights, driven by Vision 2030, which is based on principles of equality, non-discrimination, and the right to development.
“This vision has empowered women, youth, and vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, the elderly, and migrant workers, while enhancing the quality of life for all,” Al-Tuwaijri said.
“Moreover, Vision 2030 has increased the efficiency of relevant authorities to host major global events and initiatives, with people and their rights at the heart of national priorities.”
Al-Tuwaijri emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening its legislative framework, which has built a strong legal system to protect and uphold human rights.
Through comprehensive legal reforms and new legislation, Saudi Arabia has reinforced protections for all individuals. The Kingdom now embraces a diverse society with over 15 million foreigners from more than 60 nationalities — making up over 44 percent of the population — who enjoy their rights under the highest standards of legal protection, she said.
Al-Tuwaijri reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to promoting international peace and security, guided by its core values and adherence to the UN Charter.
She also highlighted the Kingdom’s support for just causes and its proactive role in resolving global crises, including its efforts in the Ukrainian crisis.
Notably, mediation led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman resulted in several successful prisoner exchanges between Russia and Ukraine, Al-Tuwaijri said.
“For human rights to be universally upheld, we must cultivate strong societies by confronting harmful practices that undermine social harmony, including contempt for religions, hate speech, and the weakening of family values,” she concluded.
Al-Tuwaijri reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to deepening cooperation with UN human rights mechanisms, stressing the importance of respecting diverse values and embracing cultural and civilizational diversity to protect and promote human rights.
