Statement attributable to the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bahrain, Mr. Khaled Al Mekwad, on United Nations Day (observed on 24 October)

On United Nations Day, which commemorates the entry into force of the United Nations Charter 79 years ago today, we remember and reflect on how nations united following an unprecedented global conflict to establish this unique organization dedicated to achieving international peace and security and sustainable development for all peoples.

In today’s turbulent times, the United Nations serves as a stabilizing force in a world increasingly facing geopolitical divisions, endless wars and conflicts, a climate crisis, including global warming, protracted humanitarian catastrophes, including rising displacement, as well as the dark shadow of nuclear weapons and new weapons.

Amid the horrific events unfolding in the Middle East, the United Nations continues to work in extremely challenging conditions to deliver life-saving humanitarian assistance to those in need and tirelessly reminds the parties of their obligations under international humanitarian law.

The United Nations represents hope for a better future where no one is left behind. The recent Summit of the Future offered hope for a revamped multilateral system, with the United Nations at its center, that can deliver on its promises and is more representative of today’s world.

For the United Nations Country Team in Bahrain, UN Day is also an opportunity to reflect on the longstanding partnership with the Kingdom of Bahrain, and how to develop it in the future.

The recent months have been marked by a series of high-level engagements between Bahrain and the United Nations, a testament to the importance of our partnership. This included the participation of His Majesty King Hamad Bin Issa Al Khalifa in the COP-28, and the participation of His Royal Highness Prince Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa in the 79th United Nations General Assembly, as well as the visit of the United Nations Secretary-General, Mr Antonio Guterres, to Bahrain to attend the 34th Summit of the League of the Arab States chaired by Bahrain.

Significant progress has also been made in recent months towards finalizing the new Strategic Cooperation Framework, which will guide the work of the United Nations in Bahrain in 2025-2029. This framework was developed through a consultative and inclusive process with the Government of Bahrain, the Private Sector, and, for the first time, representatives of Civil Society, including youth and women.

The United Nations Country Team in Bahrain remains engaged in continuing to support the people of Bahrain in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and their national development aspirations, in line with Bahrain’s Vision 2030.