At 73rd Summit of UN General Assembly.. Rashwan: A New Arabic/English Issue Sums up Mr President’s Activity In New York Years Ago

SIS Chairman Diaa Rashwan
Editor Abdelmoeti Abuzaid Head of Foreign Information Sector
Translation Nashwa Abdel-Hamid
Layout Soliman Manaa
Cover Ayat Mekki
Book Title: President Sisi at the UN Analysis & Documentation

Publisher: State Information Service 3 El Estad El Bahary St. Cairo September 2108

• Preface!

Since officially assuming the presidency in June 2014, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi underscored his eagerness to engage fully in all subsequent sessions of the United Nations General Assembly and presided over the Egyptian delegation in the high-level segment of such sessions. The UN General Assembly was convened four times during President Sisi’s first term in office, in September of each year. President Sisi delivered keynote addresses, including, most significantly, his four speeches before the General Assembly. This in addition to the President’s words and speeches in a number of summits and conferences held at the headquarters of the United Nations during the period of the General Assembly. During his stay in New York, President Sisi also held dozens of meetings with world leaders, officials, media professionals of all continents. Thus, marking the first time that an Egyptian head of state has participated in four consecutive sessions of the United Nations General Assembly. President Sisi’s participation is characterized by a number of special features, including, inter alia: 1) Full recognition of the importance of this rostrum in addressing the entire international community, the role of such international organization, the need to strengthen and regain its influence on the international order at the political, security, economic, social and cultural levels. Thus, marking a solid return of Egypt at the highest level of leadership, especially that the international order is currently undergoing major shifts in the balance of power and fundamental changes in the pattern of international relations. The international community is also facing common challenges threatening peace, security and life on Planet Earth, such as the issues of terrorism, displaced persons and refugees, climate change, economic crises, the spread of violence and extremism culture; a matter which requires full international cooperation. No international organization is better than the UN and its organs to coordinate towards achieving such required cooperation. 2) President Sisi’s participation in the sessions of the United Nations General Assembly conveys not only a media message to all peoples of the world but also a political and diplomatic message as millions around the globe follow the proceedings of the General Assembly and debates unfolding in its noble hall. Therefore, President Sisi in all his UNGA appearances was not

• Promoting Egypt’s image!

addressing the audience in the main hall, despite their importance, but was addressing the peoples of the world the audience represents, thus saving a lot of effort in promoting Egypt’s image and revealing the true nature of its stances before international public opinion. Indeed, President Sisi has made a point in his speeches of explaining the true situation and developments in Egypt, and the transformations undertaken by the Egyptian people to face down the forces of extremism and obscurantism and regain its rightful standing in the march of mankind civilization. 3) President Sisi has invested extraordinary skill, time and energy during his participation in the UNGA to host a series of meetings with and bilateral talks with world leaders, international organizations officials, and representatives of other nations. President Sisi’s meetings on the sidelines of UNGA

• UNGA Sessions!

Session th69 21 -26/9/2014 USA, France, Iraq, Presidents: South Korea, Mauritania, Cyprus, South Africa. Britain, Heads of government: Kuwait, Australia. UN International officials: Secretary General, President of the World BANK. International economic circles. Current and former US officials. Session th70 24-29/9/2015 Presidents: France, china, Croatia, Turkestan, Mali, Uruguay, Serbia, Senegal, Cyprus, Belarus, King of Jordan, Panama, Palestine. Holland, Heads of government: India, Italy, German Chancellor, Ireland, Iraq, Hungary, Ethiopia, Lebanon, Greece.

• International summits!

4) President Sisi’s activities in New York have not been limited to UNGA meetings alone or bilateral meetings on the sidelines. He took part in and chaired a number of international summits, including, inter alia: In the 70th UNGA session, President Sisi took part in the Sustainable Development Summit post-2015 and Maintenance of International Peace and Security Summit that discussed means to support United Nations efforts in the field of peacekeeping and expand the shareholder base in peacekeeping operations.

• Significant officials!

UN Secretary General, President of the European Council, President of Business Council for International Understanding, President of the World Bank. International economic circles. Current and former US officials. International Summits.
71st Session 18-24/9/2016 Presidents: USA, Palestine, Cyprus, Ghana, Brazil, Romania, Serbia, King of Jordan. Heads of government: Israel, Italy. International officials: UN Secretary General, President of the European Council, President of the World BANK, European Union Commissioner for Migration and Citizenship. International economic circles. Current and former US officials. International Summits. 72nd Session 17-22/9/2017 Presidents: USA, Palestine, Cyprus, Ghana, Brazil, Romania, Serbia, King of Jordan. Heads of government: Israel, Italy. International officials: UN Secretary General, President of the European Council, President of the World BANK, European Union Commissioner for Migration and Citizenship. International economic circles. Current and former US officials. International Summits.

* Multi-Summits!

addition to Anti- Daesh and Violent Extremism Summit, besides the meeting of African Presidents Committee on Climate Change, which was chaired by Egypt. In the 71st UNGA session, President Sisi took part in the UNSC Summit on the Developments in the Middle East, especially in Syria and Libya. He also presided over a summit of the African Peace and Security Council and a meeting of the Committee of African Heads of State on Climate Change. In the 72nd UNGA session, President Sisi took part in a summit of the UN Security Council on reforming peacekeeping operations worldwide, reviewing the Egyptian efforts as the seventh largest contributor to the UN peacekeeping forces. He also participated in UNSC summit meeting on Libya. 5) President Sisi’s participation in UNGA provides opportunities for networking with important actors in various US decisionmaking circles and communicating with the media to address US and international public opinion alike on all Egyptian issues at home and abroad. Such meetings had a profound impact on strengthening communication channels between Egypt and the US, improving bilateral relations and fostering greater understanding vis-à-vis regional and international issues. The meetings also covered different aspects pertaining to economic relations, trade ties and investments. In addition to the political, diplomatic and media importance of the highly-publicized visits of President Sisi to the United Nations and his participation in the proceedings of the UNGA and other summit meetings, the economic aspect remains central to the President’s activities and efforts in such international forum. 6) The President’s meetings with the Egyptian-US Businessmen Council and the American Chamber of Commerce to review means of boosting US investments in Egypt reflect his keenness on garnering international support for Egypt’s efforts in the fields of economic reform and comprehensive development. Meanwhile, President Sisi’s speeches, meetings and appearances during his participation in the last four UNGA sessions in New York have given a high priority to the economic dimension of development in Egypt, Africa and the world through explaining Egypt’s economic policies and urging global actors to support Egypt’s efforts to build a better future for its people.

* Mr president’s remarks!

President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt delivers remarks at the U.N. General Assembly Participants: President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt Time: 10:00 am EDT, Date: Tuesday, September 19th, 2017 (Source: The United Nations Official Website ).. EL-SISI (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Thank you, Mr. President. In the name of God, the compassionate, the merciful; Mr. President, Miroslav Lajcak, president of the General Assembly, allow me at the outset to congratulate you for assuming the presidency of the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly. I wish you all the success in carrying out your duties. I also seize this opportunity to express the utmost appreciation to Mr. Peter Thomson, the president of the 71st Session of the U.N. General Assembly, who has most ably overseen the work of the session. Mr. President, every time we meet at this august body, we rekindle the hopes and aspirations of the peoples whom we are honored to represent and serve to provide them with peace and development. New generations look up to us to realize their dreams for a decent life within a fair international order, a global order that can face challenges such as climate change, natural disasters, diseases and epidemics, as well as other man-made crises such as wars, terrorism and the huge discrepancies in the distribution of resources and development opportunities. It is evident that the purposes and principles of the United Nations are still valid as a basis for a world that offers everyone an opportunity to benefit from the great strides in scientific advancement, economic development, as well as the data revolution, which has brought societies ever more — closer in an unprecedented manner. These developments offer great potential for establishing a fair and secure international order that is based on the right to development, freedom and progress, and open interactions between people. In Egypt, we adamantly believe in the values of the United Nations and the purposes of its charter. We have great confidence that realizing these values is not only possible, but rather, an obligation and a necessity.

* Live in freedom!

Egypt’s longstanding involvement with the U.N., both as a founding member of the United Nations that has been elected to the Security Council six times and the seventh largest contributor to peacekeeping operations worldwide — this involvement bears witness to our constant strife to build a world that is worthy of the aspirations of our children and grandchildren to live in freedom — to live in freedom, dignity, security and prosperity. However, the responsibility that we bear necessitates that we be frank in saying that this world that we seek, which is possible, still remains unfortunately far from reality. We are still unable to prevent armed conflict, or confront terrorism, or disarm nuclear weapons and address the structural imbalances in the international economic order, which have widened the gap between the developed and developing worlds. Based on the experiences of the African and Arab regions, I can state with a clear conscience that these experiences summarize the current crisis of the international order and its inability to deliver on the goals of this organization. The Arabia (ph) region, Egypt’s civilizational and cultural milieu, has today become an epicenter for some of the most vicious civil conflicts in recent human history. It is the most vulnerable region to the dangers posed by terrorism. One out of every three refugees in the world today is an Arab. And the Mediterranean Sea has become a conduit for irregular migrants from Asian and African states, who are fleeing the scourge of civil strife, as well as the despair of economic and social hardships. This is reflected in the Arab region’s report on multidimensional poverty, conducted by the League of Arab States in collaboration with the United Nations. The report will be issued tomorrow. As Egypt’s geographical home, Africa lies at the heart of Egypt’s foreign policy, for it is in Africa that our historic roots lie, and it is from Africa that we derive the pride in our identity and our deep sense of belonging. This continent has also become subject to the same security threats facing the Arab region and constitutes a major example of the crisis in the current international economic order, which perpetuates poverty and economic disparity. This global order bears a major responsibility in the economic, political and social crises that threaten international peace and stability, rendering any discussion on sustainable development goals just words..

• Ambitious development strategy!

without evidence from reality. Mr. President, Egypt is therefore encircled by the most dangerous crises in the world. It is our destiny to navigate confidently through these unprecedented dangers, relying on an ambitious development strategy based on radical and economic reforms — reforms aimed, before anything, at empowering the youth, who represent the majority of the population, not only in Egypt, but also in most of the societies of the Arab countries and in the developing world. In a world that is interconnected — conflicts and full of challenges that cannot be confronted by any country alone, regardless of its capabilities, it is natural for Egypt’s ambitious development plans to correlate with an active foreign policy. Such a strategy of foreign policy is guided by the long- established moral principles engraved in our heritage and culture, and abides by the legal principles of the international system, which Egypt has actively participated in formulating. It is based on a vision to address the shortcoming — the shortcomings that have prevented the realization of the objectives of the United Nations. Our vision is based on the following five main principles and priorities. First, the only possible solution to the crises afflicting the Arab region is through upholding persistently the notion of the modern nationstate, which is based on the principles of citizenship, equality, rule of law and human rights, and thereby defeating any attempt of relapsing into doctrinal, sectarian, ethnic or tribal loyalties. The path towards reform inevitably passes through the realization of the nation-state, and cannot be built on its demise. This principle, in summary, lies at the core of Egypt’s foreign policy, and it is the foundation on which we base our positions in addressing the crises in our region. With regards to Syria, we believe there would be no salvation for Syria, except through a consensual political solution amongst all Syrians, at the core of which is the — preserving the unity of the Syrian state, the maintenance of its institutions, and broadening the political and social base to include all factions of society, and to decisively confront terrorism until it is defeated. And the way to this solution is through the UN-led negotiation process, which enjoys strong support from Egypt — support as strong as the rejection with which we face any attempt to manipulate the trag-

• Political settlement!

edy in Syria to establish international or regional zones of influence, or to carry out the subversive policies of some regional parties, whose practices have caused great suffering to our region over the past few years. It is now high time for a final and decisive confrontation with these practices. Similarly, we believe that a  is the only viable solution to the crisis in Libya. Libya continues to face attempts to dismantle the state and turn it into an open field for tribal (ph) conflict, a field of operations for terrorist organizations. Here, I clearly emphasize that Egypt will not allow the continuation of attempts to tamper with the unity and integrity of the Libyan state, or to undermine the capabilities of the Libyan people. We will continue to work diligently with the United Nations to achieve a political settlement based on the Skhirat agreement, which is inspired by the recommendations agreed upon by the Libyans, the recommendations that came out of their consecutive meetings in Cairo during the last months. Their aim is to end the political stalemate and to revive the settlement process in the country. The same aforementioned logic applies to Egypt’s strategy in Iraq and Yemen. A — the only way to overcome the crises is a unified, capable and just modern nation-state, and it’s the way to realize the aspirations of the Arab people. Second, it is time for a comprehensive and final settlement to the longest standing crisis in the Arab region, namely, the question of Palestine, which is a clear depiction on the — of the international community’s inability to implement a long series of United Nations and Security Council resolutions. The closure of this chapter through a fair settlement based on established international norms and establishing an independent Palestinian state along the 1967 border — borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, is a necessary precondition for the entire region to in transit (ph) into a phase of stability and development. This is also necessary to restore the credibility of the United Nations and the international order. Without a doubt, achieving peace will eliminate one of the main excuses that terrorism has been manipulating to justify its proliferation in the region. And it will guarantee dignified life for the peoples of the region. It is time to permanently overcome the barrier of hatred forever.

• Safety and security!

I would like to underscore here that the Arabs still extend their hands in peace. Egypt’s experience proves that peace is possible, and is indeed a realistic objective that we should all continue to pursue with all seriousness. Allow me, Mr. President, here before I continue my statement, to steer off script for a moment and direct a call to everyone who is concerned by this issue. And my first audience is the Palestinian people. I tell the Palestinian people it’s important — extremely important to unite behind a goal and to overcome the differences, and not to lose opportunities, to be ready to accept coexistence with the other, with Israelis, in safety and security, and to achieve stability and security for all. And I say, and direct my call to the Israeli people, we have an excellent experience in Egypt, in peace with you for longer than 40 years. We can repeat this experience and this excellent step once again: the peace and the security of the Israeli citizen, together with the peace and security of the Palestinian citizen. (APPLAUSE)

* Do not hesitate!

My call is to stand behind your political leadership and support it, and to not hesitate. Do not hesitate. I am addressing Israeli public opinion. Do not hesitate. We are all with you for the success of this attempt, and this opportunity might not repeat itself. My other call is to all peace-loving nations and stability-loving nations. All Arab states, support this excellent endeavor. And to the — all the nations of the world, stand behind this attempt that, if successful, will change the face of history. And to — I address the American leadership, the American president — we have an opportunity to write a new page in humanity’s history, to achieve peace in this region.
(APPLAUSE)
Third, we can — it’s impossible to envisage a future for the regional or international order without a definitive and comprehensive confrontation with terrorism. This should be approached in a manner thateradicates terrorism and eliminates its roots and causes, in addition to openly challenging any party that supports or finances terrorism, or offers its political or media channels or — safe havens.

* Terrorism..Roots & Causes!

In all candidness, there is no room for any serious discussion on the credibility of a system that applies a double standard, a system that fights terrorism while tolerating its supporters and engaging them in discussions on how to eliminate a threat that they created in the first place. In order to be truthful and faithful to our peoples, members of different international alliances must answer pertinent questions that we are raising out of devotion to our people. Answers are usually avoided by those who prefer duplicity to attain political interests, narrow interests at the demise of states and the expense of bloodshed. We will not allow our people’s sacrifices to be lost in vain, under any circumstance. We in the Muslim world must face our reality and work together to rectify misconstrued notions which have become an ideological pretext for terrorism and its destructive discourse. And, as you may recall, Egypt has launched an initiative to rectify religious discourse in order to revive the true and tolerant values of Islam. Egypt’s religious institutions are currently engaged in this process, in coordination with relevant international entities worldwide. Egypt, which is currently engaged in an unrelenting battle to eradicate terrorism from its territory, is committed to track, confront and eliminate terrorism decisively wherever it exists. It is evident that confronting terrorism has been at the forefront of Egypt’s priorities during its membership of the Security Council in 2016, 2017. It was also our priority during our chairmanship of the Counter-Terrorism Committee. This was not only in defense of Egypt’s future, but in defense of the future of the international committee as a whole. Fourth, the elimination of the root causes of international crises and sources of threat to international stability necessitates the operationalization of the principle of common, but differentiated responsibilities between members of the international community. This will allow narrowing the economic and social gaps between developed and developing nations. How can the United Nations, the Agenda 2030 and the sustainable development goals have any credibility when the international economic order is, in itself, responsible for augmenting disparities in a manner inconsistent with the values of justice and equality?

• Economic Reform!

How can there be an opportunity for less-developed countries, no matter how determined they are, to implement fundamental economic reforms to address the mismanagement of the resources without addressing the imbalances in the international economic order? This requires involving developing countries more in the structure of international economic governance and facilitating their access to easier financing, as well as markets and technology transfer. Fifth, settling disputes in our world today can only be achieved through respect for the principles of international law and negotiation on the basis of legal, historic and moral principles, as well as respect of sovereignty of states and the principle of nonintervention in internal affairs. After more than seven decades have elapsed since the establishment of the United Nations, force and zero-sum games cannot be the means to realize interests. Today’s world is based on mutual interdependence among nations, where significant horizons for cooperation and understanding exist to achieve common interests for all. Based on the aforementioned principles, Egypt has been at the forefront of countries that have been keen on initiating the Nile Basin Initiative in 1999. We pursue the conclusion of a trilateral agreement between Egypt, Sudan and Ethiopia to address the Renaissance Dam issue from a cooperative perspective, in a manner that establishes a clear legal framework to manage the issue in accordance with international law and established norms and based on the well- established rules, governing relations between states sharing basins of transboundary rivers all over the world. This agreement remains the legal framework that can be a reflection of the logic of cooperation and sharing between the three parties, as long as good faith persists. This is particularly important — to implement the agreement, in light of the pressing time. We must not lose the opportunity of presenting a successful model for the management of relations between three sisterly countries in the Nile Basin. Mr. President, in conclusion, our meeting today in this august body is an opportunity for truthful self-reflection, where we should admit the shortcomings of the international system to deliver the noble objectives and aspirations it was set up to realize. It is an opportunity to renew our commitment to establish a more equitable international order, given that the attainment of justice globally remains a necessary condition to confront the immense challenges that impact our world today, and that threaten the credibility of our international system.

• Rohingya minority!

The humanitarian tragedy facing the Rohingya minority in Myanmar represents another reason that reminds the international community of its moral obligations, let alone its legal responsibilities, as reflected in the U.N. charter. We must promptly work towards a lasting solution that ends the plight of Palestinians and addresses the root causes of the crisis, which has become a threat to regional security and the stability of neighboring countries. Let us move together to empower the people of this world to regain control of their destinies and to explore new horizons of cooperation between members of the international community. Let us transcend the vicious circle of narrow interests as — and the futile logic of power politics to the broader horizons of common human interests and cooperation among all. Let us be true to ourselves and end all polarizing policies. The world today is in dire need of upholding our common human interests. It is incumbent upon all states to strive to further relations with all partners, without offending anyone. This, Mr. President, was Egypt’s message that I have conveyed to you today explicitly and clearly. I am full of hope that our joint efforts during the upcoming period will succeed in realizing a better world which is more secure, stable and prosperous. Thank you. Long live Egypt, long live Egypt, long live Egypt. May the peace of God be upon you. (APPLAUSE) END

Abdel Fattah Al Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, delivers remarks at the UNGA General Debate of the 71st Session Time: 3:00 pm EDT, Date: Tuesday, September 20th, 2016 (Source: The United Nations Official Website )

• 2020 Sustainable Development!

AL SISI: (Inaudible) in the name of Allah the compassionate, the merciful, Mr. Thompson, I would like to congratulate you on your presidency of the 71st session of the GA, wishing you success. I wish also to address our gratitude to Mr. Lykketoft, the president of the previous session, for his efforts and contributions. Mr. President, this GA session comes in the wake of our launching of a new phase in the strive toward comprehensive, sustainable development with its environmental, economic and social dimensions after the adoption of the 2020 Sustainable Development and the Addis Ababa Action plan for financing of development last year. The aspirations of people particularly in the developing world for decent standard of living and constant progress, that is doubtless the primary responsibility of us as leaders entrusted by peoples with these goals, in line with the principles of humanity that guide us all. However, the challenges that face developing countries, coupled with the limited capabilities at their disposal prevent the realization of the level of ambition toward that agenda. Developing countries are not afforded a sufficient opportunity to achieve sustainable development. They require adequate international climate, which provides them with a larger share of international trade finance mechanisms, transfer of technology, as well as flow of investments and debt settlement, in addition to the need for national development conducive to development. Egypt calls for launching — backing their own state in order to guarantee a balance between different dimensions of sustainable development, particularly in relation to the effectiveness of social security (ph) networks, advancing national ownership of development. Egypt also stresses the importance of harnessing the global monetary system to establish a fair global economic system that provides equal opportunities for development and contributes to minimizing the gap between developed and developing countries.

• Climate Change!

The U.N. is the ideal platform to address these issues. Accordingly, Egypt was among the first 22 states to present a voluntary review of its developmental plans last July. Last year we reached an agreement based on the principles of the U.N. Convention on Climate Change. As the coordinator of the group of African leaders on climate change, I confirm Africa’s commitment to confronting climate change within their abilities — its’ abilities and its’ aspiration toward putting into practice the implementation of — implementation mechanism of agreement pertaining to the transfer of technology and sustainable financing. Therefore, Egypt has established a track of renewable energy initiative and submitted it in the context of its chairmanship of its committee of the African leaders concerned with the climate change. That implementation of the relevant A.U. resolutions, Egypt highlights the importance of the initiative in providing support for Africa efforts to confront climate change must observe equity and the right to development, as well as adherence to the principles of international law, most important of which is refraining from harm and observing cooperation, the participation of different countries and the prospective projects in accordance with rules regulating international financial institutions, particularly the World Bank. The world has become a global village as a result of the positive impact of the communications, technology revolutions, as well as the freedom of capital flow and investments and global trade. However, we continue to see another facet of globalization, one that has produced a number of socioeconomic challenges. Globalization has been linked to the rise in poverty, the expansion of the inequality gap and undermining social contract. These factors combined have pressured the institutional cohesion of these countries. Perhaps these challenges and pressures on the institutional constitute the biggest incentive for the international community to work diligently to provide state institutions in their own countries with the best possible means to undertake their responsibilities and meet the needs and aspirations of their people.
In the midst of these challenges facing the international order, the Egyptian people have succeeded in enforcing their will to achieve a stability to protect the state and institutions and safeguard the society from fragmentation and sliding into anarchy.

* A New Constitution!

The Egyptian people approved a new constitution that enshrines the rights and freedoms outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a constitution that establishes equality on the basis of citizenship and consolidates protection for vulnerable groups, paving the way for women to have an unprecedented number of seats in the House of Representatives, expanding the representation of youth in it. That House of Representatives is now active in practicing its logistical authority and oversight responsibility over the executive authorities. On the economic front Egypt is steadily moving toward implementing an ambitious plan for economic reform, taking into consideration the social dimensions and requisites of decent living for the Egyptian people. Egypt is also implementing giant national projects aiming to expand road network, renewable energy and agriculture — expansion of agricultural area. While the Middle East still teems with bloody conflicts, Egypt has managed to preserve its stability in the midst of a highly unstable region, thanks to the solidity of its institutions and its people’s awareness of their great cultural heritage. The international community should acknowledge and support this fact to the benefit of the region and the world in its entirety so that Egypt may continue to act as an anchor of stability in the Middle East, sparing no effort in undertaking its natural role by working with regional and international parties to restore security and stability in the Middle East. At the forefront of the bloody conflicts plaguing the region, the agonizing situation that Syria suffers has continued for six years, resulting in hundreds of thousands of debt, turning millions more to IDPs and refugees within and with outside their homeland and the neighboring countries. Amongst them half million Syrians are hosted by Egypt. And we welcome them as brothers and sisters, and provide them with health care, education, housing. The bloodletting in Syria and the absence of any political horizon solution is no longer acceptable. What is necessary is clear and immediate and comprehensive halt to all hostile acts throughout Syria, paving the way for a political solution that ends bloodshed and preserves the territorial integrity and security of Syria and (inaudible) institutions, as well as realizing the aspirations of the Syrians, putting an end to chaos that only serves to facilitate the proliferation of the (inaudible). In this regard we welcome the latest agreement for cessation of hostilities, which was reached as a result of the commendable efforts by Russia and the United States. And we aspire toward the swift and serious international action to resume negotiations as soon as possible to reach a comprehensive settlement of the crisis.

• A Comprehensive settlement!

Within the same context of our troubled region, the Arab-Israeli conflict continues to be the core of regional instability in the Middle East, necessitating joint efforts by the countries of the region and the international community to reach a final and comprehensive solution to the conflict. Egypt continues to pursue its utmost efforts to achieve peace in the region and end the Israeli occupation through negotiations and progress in the peace process in order to reach a final settlement and sustainable and just peace on the basis of the two-state solution. We thus welcome current efforts based on a genuine desire to improve the situation in the Palestinian territories. As the Palestinian people continue to suffer a state of affairs that must be rectified with focus on ending occupation and restoring the rights of the Palestinian people through a peace agreement consistent with the resolutions of international legitimacy, one that guarantees the Palestinian’s right to their own state (inaudible) chief security for Israel within the context of normal relations in its region. Egypt affirms that the hand of peace remains extended in the form of the Arab Peace Initiative, and stresses the need to work for constructive steps to end (inaudible) settlement building and initiate negotiations for the ultimate resolution, while simultaneously halting all acts that cause harm to the Arab heritage in Jerusalem. Permit me to deviate from the written statement through this forum which represents the voice of the world to address an appeal to the Israeli leadership and Israeli people to look into the need of finding a solution to this question. We have a true opportunity, a real opportunity to write a bright page in the history of our region, to move toward peace. The Egyptian experience is wonderful and unique, and can be repeated by solving the problem of the Palestinians and establishing a Palestinian state side-by-side the Israeli state that reserves peace and security for the Palestinians, and safety and security for the Israeli prosperity, and peace for both the Israelis and the Palestinians. In a situation with guided complications for Egyptian national security, Libya is currently witnessing a delicate (inaudible) juncture and a deep political crisis. Despite the progress we achieved last year through the signing of the Suhairat (ph) Agreement, its implementation is still faltering.

• Libya Unity!

Egypt is playing an active role in bringing together the Libyan parties and supporting the implementation of the agreement as a means of regaining the unity and authority of the Libyan state over its territory, allowing it to operate through the legislative institutions represented by the Presidential Council, the National Unity Government, the House of Representatives and national army. Egypt also hosts the meetings of our Libyan brothers to facilitate the implementation of the Suhairat (ph) Agreement, as well as the establishment of a National Unity government representing the Libyans. Its ratification by the House of Representatives so that it may focus on reconstruction, allowing the army to focus on combating. In this regard it is necessary to lift the arms embargo imposed on the army. There is no place for terrorism or militias in Libya. It is high time to restore — for the Libyan state to restore its institutions (ph). In Yemen Egypt is exerting every effort to support Yemini territorial integrity and security, the return of legitimate government. We support the efforts of Ismail Ould Cheikh and his plan to resolve the crisis. We have approved — which has been approved by the legitimate government. We stress the importance of resuming the negotiations, and for all parties to declare their commitment to the U.N. (inaudible) plan to reach a comprehensive settlement in Yemen, in accordance with the secretary’s resolution, particularly to 2016 (ph). Egypt will continue to support efforts to — for a solution and for providing humanitarian assistance to our Yemeni brothers, in addition to our fundamental role in securing maritime navigation embitterment (ph) and the Red Sea. The majority of these Arab crises are a reflection of a global state of conflict, and I must reiterate Egypt’s rejection of any foreign interference in Arab affairs. I would like to affirm our commitment to the principle of good neighborliness, stressing Egypt’s solidarity with Arab states in facing foreign intervention in light of the link between the Arab security, including security of the Arab Gulf. By the same token, Egypt shoulders its responsibility toward the security and stability of Africa. Egypt is currently the chair of the Africa Peace and Security Council. And in this capacity it is focusing on enhancing cooperation between the A.U. and the U.N. With regards to growing transnational threats, including terrorism and organized crime, we aim to bring about a shift in addressing conflicts on the basis of the principle of national leadership and ownership to ensure success of peace-building efforts.

• African Standby Force!

Through its membership in the African Peace and Security Council and the U.N. Security Council, Egypt has been keen on enhancing coordination between the two bodies. We have put this at the top of our priorities and our presidency of the council. Egypt has sought to support the peace and security structure in Africa, particularly the efforts to operationalize African Standby Force. Egypt has increased its participation in A.U. (ph) peacekeeping operations as the 10th largest contributor. Egypt called for the adoption of comprehensive counterterrorism strategy, an approach that is not limited to the security aspects (inaudible) ideological aspects. Egypt will host SINSAD (ph) Counterterrorism Center (ph). Egypt would also like to highlight the significance of assisting any arising sources of tension, taking into consideration the phenomenal desertification and water scarcity, and the developmental needs related to managing transnational boundaries’ water resources. With regard to the situations in our African continent, Egypt stresses the need for providing the Somali government in support of order to conclude elections. In Burundi Egypt seeks to find solutions to the political crisis via the African Peace and Security Council and the Security Council. We are working to address the crisis in an appropriate manner to diffuse the political situation and allow all the Burundian parties to intensify peaceful political dialogue, averting the use of violence. Egypt has sought to participate in the regional frameworks to address the crisis in South Sudan since inception, engaging with the parties of the conflict as well as regional international parties to achieve peace. Through its current chairmanship of the African Peace and Security Council, Egypt seeks to increase the role of the council in this regard, as well as to enhance cooperation with the joint military and assessment mechanism in Egypt calls for all parties to work within the transitional government of national unity of South Sudan with aim of restoring peace to Juba. Regarding the Republic of the Sudan, Egypt commends the efforts deployed by the Sudanese government, which resulted in signing the roadmap proposed by the high level African Union mechanism in April last. The phenomenon of terrorism and the hostility toward the right to life it represents has become an urgent threat to international peace and security. Terrorism constitutes a threat to the entity of the state in favor of an extremist ideologies that utilize religion as a veil from behind which to conduct monstrous acts.

• Extremist Ideologies!

This requires international cooperation concerning those efforts. Egypt has always been stressing that the endeavor to defeat terrorism will never achieve its end unless we address the root causes and confront terrorism groups with decisiveness, refute extremist ideologies. I would like here to call upon the international committee to take all possible measures to prevent terrorism from exploiting advances and information technology, which have contributed to endowing the phenomena of terrorism and ideological extremism with dangerous new dimension that have granted them global reach. It is essential to end the broadcasting of channels and the hosting of websites that which incite violence and extremism. The world is at a crossroads. Threats of international peace and security are no longer conventional, but have rather evolved to constitute threat to the very tenets of human civilization. In the same vein, challenges too we face, be they humanitarian, environmental, economic, developmental, health related, are no longer confined by international borders. We have rather — they have rather become global. In this regard I would like to point out that the Constitution of UNESCO stated that war begins in the minds of men. And thus it is in the minds of men that defenses of peace must be constructed. I assert before you today that the cancer of our age is terrorism that breeds the call for extremism and violence in the minds of people. Accordingly, it is our duty to instill in those very same minds the principles of tolerance and coexistence. If culture is the reflection of the principles by which mankind lives, we must employ culture, technology and knowledge to benefit the development of peace. The United Nations has to give greater attention to addressing the cultural aspects of development and peacemaking, and the elimination of destructive ideologies, including via access to knowledge, transfer of technology and confronting extremist ecologies. This must be undertaken in participation in partnership with UNESCO. We appreciate its role today and we must make use of this to contribute to world working for everybody and characterized by peace and security. It is high time for mankind to reclaim the essence of our humanity, sharing knowledge and technology without monopoly, uniting in the face of challenges.

• Coexistence within international family!

Just as it has always been an eternal accumulation of the civilization, Egypt reiterates and reaffirms before you its commitment to continuously contributing to coexistence within international family, strive for a more secure and prosperous world for our future generations. Thank you. Godspeed and blessings be upon you. (APPLAUSE) END

• Constructive Role!

Statement by the President of the Arab Republic of Egypt Before the 70th Session on the General Assembly At the United Nations September 28, 2015 (Source: The United Nations Official Website )
Mr. President, At the outset, I would like to congratulate you and your friendly country on assuming the presidency of the current session of the United Nations General Assembly, and to express my appreciation to your predecessor, the Foreign Minister of our brotherly country Uganda, for his exceptional efforts during his presidency of the previous session. I would also like to commend the constructive role played by the Secretary General of the United Nations, and his ceaseless efforts to uphold the principles of the UN Charter, which has served as the constitution and reference of international relations for seventy years. Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen, A few weeks ago, Egypt and the world witnessed the inauguration of the New Suez Canal; an achievement that will have a major impact on a number of economic fields, such as transportation, trade and services. It is also a statement of Egypt’s capability, and the determination of its people to work with sincerity to overcome challenges and obstacles. I do not intend to delve today into all these dimensions, which I am sure you are already aware of. What I wish to highlight is the significance of what we achieved on Egyptian soil; for this New Canal is not only Egypt’s gift to the world, it is the embodiment of hope, and the ability to transform that hope into tangible reality and a new direction through hard work. You may agree with me that hope, that most important value, is the force that has continuously driven individuals and peoples onwards in search of a better tomorrow. When hope is coupled with hard work and commitment, it becomes the brightest light that can dispel darkness of despair, a darkness that today lingers over the Middle East. Hope and hard work are the realistic example presented by Egypt to its neighbors in Africa, Asia, and the Mediterranean and the hand that Egypt extends to its region to contribute to overcoming the challenges of the present and illuminating the path towards the future.

• A Brighter Future!

It is our belief in Egypt that the Middle East and the world at large are confronted with a perilous danger and are in dire need of a model that presents new prospects for our youth, providing them with opportunities for a brighter future. They must be shown that, with diligent work, they can participate in crafting this future. It is against this background that I announce Egypt’s intention to launch, in coordination with the United Nations and member states, and with wide participation by the youth of all nations, an initiative labeled: “Hope and Action for a New Direction” Or “HAND” according to the English acronym. This is indeed the hand that Egypt is extending as part of its contribution to defeating the forces of extremism and the ideas they seek to spread, through proactive action rather than just resistance. Counterterrorism efforts so far have relied solely on defensive reaction, focusing on defending the present. In parallel to these valuable efforts, we must seek ways to channel the productive energy of our youth away from extremists and their false ideas, and to employ our youth’s capabilities in building the future that will soon be their own. Ladies and Gentlemen, God has bestowed humanity with the gift of the mind, which was our means to find Him. Our ability to use this mind to make choices is the ultimate proof that our differences and diversities are a product of divine will, which does not accept for human beings to be devoid of purpose. Before this simple, palpable truth, all of the arguments made by extremists of all religions and creeds fall apart, particularly those who claim to have a monopoly over interpreting Islam. They forget that what they propagate is no more than their prejudiced interpretation of religion, which negates the truth of Islam’s tolerance, justice, and mercy. Their rejection of the right of others to differ is a rejection of the Creator’s will. In reality, they strive to achieve worldly and insidious goals, seeking to recruit and indoctrinate followers and isolate them from any opportunity to attain a correct understanding of religion. There is no doubt that more than 1.5 billion Muslims refuse to subscribe to the views of this small minority that claims to speak on their behalf and seeks, through violence and extremism, to marginalize and silence all who oppose it. The whole world should realise this. Nevertheless, I feel the distress of every Muslim who suffers from discrimination and prejudice solely for belonging to this great religion.

• Muslim and non-Muslim alike!

Such discrimination is doubtlessly viewed by the forces of extremism as an unprecedented triumph, as one of their primary goals is to create and enlarge this fissure between Muslims and the rest of the world. Allow me then, to pose this question: how many Muslims must fall victim to the abominations of terrorism and extremism before the world recognizes that all of us, Muslim and non-Muslim alike, are at war with the same enemy? That we face the same threat? How much blood must be spilled in countries that suffer from the terrorist scourge before the international community awakens to the reality of this plague, which Egypt is now confronting, at the forefront of Islamic countries, as the first line of defence? When will the international community acknowledge that there is no alternative to solidarity between all peoples to defeat this evil, wherever it exists? Ladies and gentlemen, We have all witnessed Libya’s descent along a downward spiral when the forces of extremism announced their presence through actions that contradict the principles of Islam and humanity. The slaughter of Egyptians on the coasts of Libya was but a result of complacency in confronting the expansion of extremists in defiance of the will of the Libyan people, tolerating their exclusionary tendencies, and allowing them to hold hostage the destiny of Libya and its people. Egypt’s great concern for Libya’s future, security, and stability were the main driving force behind our support for UN efforts to reach a peaceful settlement. This support had a significant role in achieving the Libyan Political Agreement (Skhirat Agreement), which should be considered a milestone. From this point onwards, the efforts of the international community should be consolidated as well as its support for the will of the parties to the agreement, in order to rebuild the Libyan state, empower it to effectively combat terrorism and enhance its capacity to defeat this threat before it can establish a base from which to target Libya’s neighbors and extend to the depths of Africa. In this context, I would like to emphasize the importance of continuing to foster an environment that is conducive to increased participation amongst Libyans who believe in a modern state, in parallel with unrelenting confrontation to eradicate terrorism. We have also observed how extremists exploited the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people to drag this brotherly nation into conflict, in order to achieve their intentions to exclude anyone but themselves. In fact, these conflicts erupted between extremist organizations themselves in the struggle over the spoils.

• A Clear Plan!

Today, Syria is being torn apart as it faces the threat of division, an unprecedented humanitarian crisis and the exposed ambitions of regional parties. In response to this dire situation, Egypt called on the Syrian national parties to meet in Cairo to formulate a clear plan for the interim period in accordance with Geneva. This would provide a common ground for all Syrians to build a democratic Syria with sovereignty over the entirety of its territory, in a way that would preserve the state and its institutions and respect and protect its diversity and national identity. These Syrian parties are invited today to contribute with all vigour in all efforts to negotiate a political resolution to the crisis which achieves the aspirations of the Syrian people. Ladies and gentlemen, Egypt’s political and military support for Yemen and its participation in the measures taken by the coalition of states supporting the legitimate government were in response to Yemen’s request. They also stemmed from our responsibility towards preserving Arab national security in the face of attempts by outside parties to intervene in its affairs as well as our commitment to Yemen’s unity, independence and territorial integrity. Egypt urges the international community to exert the necessary efforts to resume the transitional political process, in accordance with the Gulf Initiative and its enforcement mechanisms, as well as relevant Security Council Resolutions. Egypt is closely following the latest developments in Iraq, and we hope that the reforms implemented by the government will contribute to restoring cohesion between the people of Iraq and advancing national reconciliation. As Egypt has previously emphasized, the increasing plight of refugees fleeing from destructive armed conflicts reaffirms the need to work towards resolving these conflicts and confronting the scourge of terrorism, a major aggravating factor. It also necessitates creating channels for legal immigration and facilitating transportation as well as linking international migration and development. Egypt hosts ever increasing numbers of refugees, who share with their Egyptian brothers and sisters, the same social, education and health services provided by the State, in spite of the economic burden this represents. Egypt hopes that solutions to this crisis will be found, whether in the shortrun to alleviate the humanitarian suffering of refugees, or in the longrun through overcoming the fundamental causes of this crisis. Ladies and Gentlemen,The aforementioned is perhaps an example of the existing and increasing threat posed by terrorist organizations’ exploitation of political crises to achieve their objectives.

• Self-determination and to an independent state!

It is incumbent on me, as the President of Egypt, which stands at the heart of this confrontation, to forewarn of the dangers of expansion of this threat to other crises and regions, at the forefront of which is Palestine. Resolving this conflict and empowering the Palestinian people to exercise their right to self-determination and to an independent state within the border of 4th June 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital will effectively eliminate one of the most important factors contributing to the region’s instability and one of the most dangerous pretexts used to justify extremism and terrorism. Perhaps you would agree with me that it is imperative to resolve this conflict without hesitation, so that the nations of the region may focus on building their future together, in order to achieve prosperity and build a better future for the coming generation. The ongoing events in Jerusalem and the Holy Mosque of A1-Aqsa confirm that achieving peace continues to face hurdles and challenges that require us all to tackle by providing decisive final solutions. Ladies and Gentlemen, We, in Egypt, realize the importance of other factors, in addition to defeating terrorism and extremism, to achieve stability and comprehensive development. The Egyptian uprising and its call for change was an expression of our awareness of the need to build a modern nation, with all its components, in order to achieve these goals. We are aware that what we have achieved are only a few steps along a long path; we are committed to pursuing this path to its conclusion, in spite of the challenges we face. This year will witness Egypt’s parliamentary elections, in completion of the road map for the future, so that the people’s representatives can exercise their oversight and legislative responsibilities during the upcoming phase. This phase will witness, God willing, the further realization of the Egyptian peoples’ aspirations for freedom, dignity and social justice. In this context, it is essential for me to highlight that Egypt’s government launched in March of this year “The Sustainable Development Strategy: Egypt’s Vision in 2030”, in conjunction with the international community’s endeavors to articulate an ambitious agenda for international development post-2015. We hope this agenda will take into consideration the importance of our common but differentiated responsibilities in confronting global challenges based on the disparity in capacities and resources, as well as the diversity of our cultures.

• A Joint Responsibility!

Development is a fundamental human right. Facilitating and promoting it, particularly in developing countries and in Africa, is a joint responsibility and top priority particularly for the developed world. Ladies and Gentlemen, The vision Egypt is proposing is the continuation of a lengthy path, as old as human history itself. Throughout this journey, Egyptians have continuously innovated; they have welcomed all those who passed through their lands, hence their contributions to humanity remain significant to this day. Today, through its nomination to a nonpermanent seat in the UN Security Council for the coming two years, Egypt aspires to enhance its participation to consolidate international peace and stability. Your confidence in Egypt’s role shall, by God’s will, be well-placed because Egypt appreciates the responsibility it shoulders during this critical juncture, and will seek to achieve the interests of its continent, Africa, its Arab region and the entire world. It will seek to uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the values that unite human civilization. The banks of Egypt’s eternal River Nile have witnessed the establishment of the first building blocks of this human civilization and its flourishing. Egypt remained, for many epochs, a centre for knowledge and art and a beacon for other countries and nations. In spite of the difficulties and setbacks Egypt endured at other times, the Egyptian people long today to make history once again. I am confident that, with God’s help, the Egyptian people will be able to achieve their highest aspirations for themselves, their country, their region and the whole world. May the Peace, Mercy and the Blessings of God be upon you.

• The Cradle of Human Civilization!

Remarks by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi Subject: Address to the United Nations General Assembly Location: U.N. Headquarters, New York City, New York Time: 1:12 pm EDT, Date: Wednesday, September 24th, 2014 (Source: The United Nations Official Website )
PRESIDENT ABDEL FATTAH AL-SISI: (Through interpreter.) In the name of God, the compassionate and the merciful, Mr. President, at the outset it gives me pleasure to congratulate you and your friendly country for assuming the presidency of the General Assembly at its current session. We are confident that you will lead its work wisely and lend you our support as you undertake your duties. I take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to your predecessor for his untiring efforts as president of the previous session. I also reiterate our support in full to the secretary-general as he strives to realize the purposes of the charter of the United Nations. Your majesties — your majesties, highnesses and excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, I stand before you today as one of the sons of Egypt, the cradle of human civilization. From this podium I first salute the great people of Egypt. Let me here also salute the thousands of Egyptians who came from Egypt, who came from different parts of the United States, who are present here to say that the new Egypt is coming. (Applause.) From this podium I first salute the great people of Egypt that made history twice over the past few years, first when they revolted against corruption and despotism and claimed their right to freedom, dignity and social justice, then when they held on to their identity and, enthused by patriotism, they rose up against exclusion, refusing to succumb to the tyranny of a faction who, in the name of religion, put its narrow interests before the interests of the people. These were simply snapshots of the defining moments Egypt recently witnessed. They constitute only milestones of a longer journey which Egyptians, fueled by their dreams and aspirations, have embarked (off ?) on towards a better day and a more prosperous future. The world is starting to grasp the reality of what happened in Egypt and understand the circumstances that drove Egyptians to intuitively take to the streets to rebel against the forces of extremism and darkness, which once in power undermined the foundations of the democratic process and national institutions and sought to impose a state of polarization to break the unity of the people.

• ..exploit religion!

The upsurge in extremism and violence perpetrated in the name of religion that the region is currently witnessing is an evidence of the true objectives of these groups that exploit religion. We have warned against them over and over again. They have transformed the values of justice, compassion and mercy, treasured by Judaism, Christianity and Islam, into grim sectarianism and destructive civil and regional wars which continue to claim the lives of innocent people of different religions. Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen, the Egyptian people realize — and I do too, given the responsibilities that I shoulder since my election as president — that achieving our goals began by building a civil democratic state, in light of the principles we sought through adhering to the road map for the future agreed upon by Egyptian national powers, which will be completed with the holding of parliamentary elections following the presidential elections and the constitutional referendum during which Egyptians express their free will. Our aim is to build a new Egypt, a space that respects rights and freedoms, honors its duties and ensures the co-existence of its citizens without exclusion of discrimination; a state that respects and enforces the rule of law, guarantees freedom of opinion for all and ensures freedom of belief and worship to its people; a state that is determined to achieve growth, prosperity and a promising future that meets the aspirations of its people. To attain that, Egypt began implementing an ambitious, comprehensive program to spur development until 2030, with the aim of laying the foundations of free market economy that is capable of attracting investments in a secure and stable environment. The new Suez Canal Project, the gift of Egyptians to the world, is proof of the seriousness of our intent and of the resolve of the new Egypt to forge a better tomorrow for its children and youth. This is why I invite you to participate in the economic conference that will be held in Egypt next February to achieve development and build the future, not only for Egypt but for the whole region, These steps briefly reflect the gist of the social contract embraced by the Egyptians in their new constitution, to build a better today and a brighter tomorrow for our youth and to establish a state that’s armed with strong institutions and governed by the rule of law; a state that respects the judiciary, ensures its independence and applies the principle of separation of powers; a state that is not held back by a terrorism that thinks that it can conquer and repress our nation.

• Religion to reach power!

Egypt has suffered from the scourge of this terrorism since the ’90s to — of the last century, when it concealed its poisonous viewpoint — viewpoints behind religion to reach power, to establish the caliphate state, relying on violence and terror to achieve its objectives and generating in the process a handful of extremists that commit atrocities in the name of religion. Here I stress that we should not allow them to abuse Islam and offend the 1 ½ billion Muslims that cherish its noble values.

• Building the nation-state!

Religion, by virtue of its holiness and sanctity, cannot be put to test — to the test by humans to judge whether it has succeeded or failed. Terrorism is a plague that does not differentiate, when it spreads, between developing and developed societies. Terrorists come from differing societies. They are not bound together by any true religious faith. This is why it is imperative that we all intensify our cooperation/ coordination efforts to end the support provided to these terrorist organizations that enables them to continue perpetrating crimes, pursuant to the principles of the charter of the United Nations, and in fulfillment of its objectives. Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen, the problems that our region faces emanating from the space provided to the local and regional forces of extremism, as well as the state of polarization that often turns into division and strife, has become a serious danger that threatens the very existence of the state and dispels its identity. This has produced a fertile ground for terrorism and its organizations to grow and gain influence. In this sense, the crises facing some countries of the region could be resolved through the following two-pronged approach aiming at building the nation-state:

• Equality of all citizens!

One, the application of the principles of equality of all citizens and respect for the rule of One, the application of the principles of equality of all citizens and respect for the rule of law based on a social contract and a national consensus while ensuring the enjoyment by all of all rights, especially the right to development. This will safeguard societies from exploitation and prevent them from succumbing to extremism. Two, a decisive confrontation with the forces of extremism and terrorism as well as with any attempt to impose opinions by intimidation of violence or to force exclusion through rejection in all its forms. Egypt, in agreement with Libya’s neighboring countries, has put forward an initiative that set specific steps and a clear horizon to end the plight of this brotherly country. We can build on this initiative to reach a comprehensive political solution that strengthens the elected Libyan institutions and ensure that the bloodshed is put to an end and that the territorial integrity of Libya is preserved. To succeed, we must effectively stop smuggling arms into Libya and deal relentlessly with extremist movement that resort to weapons and violence and that does not — that do not recognize the democratic process. Despite the heartrending humanitarian situation in brotherly Syria and the destruction and loss of innocent lives resulting from the crisis there, I am confident that it is possible to put into place a political framework that ensures that the aspirations of the Syrian people are met without compromising with terrorism and without replicating the circumstances which the Syrians initially rebelled against. I emphasize Egypt’s support to the aspirations of the Syrian people to a safe life that ensures the stability of Syria, preserves its territorial integrity as well the unity of its people. The establishment of a new government approved by the parliament in brotherly Iraq is a significant development that restores hope and the possibility of an improvement of the situation there, and in the success of the internal and external attempts to achieve stability, restore the areas that fell under the control of the terrorist organization ISIS, maintain the territory and integrity of Iraq, end the bloodshed and realize aspirations and hopes of the Iraqis as well as their efforts to bring back security and stability in their country. Despite the multitude of crises threatening our region, some of which I alluded to, the Palestinian issue remains a top priority for Egypt. Palestinians still aspire to establish their independent state under occupied territories in 1967 with East Jerusalem as its capital on the basis of the principles upon which the peace process was established under an Egyptian initiative since the 1970s. These principles are not up for negotiation. Otherwise, the basis of a comprehensive peace in the region would erode, and the values of justice and humanity would vanish. The continued deprivation of the Palestinian people, of their rights, is undoubtedly exploited by some to inflame other crises, achieve hidden goals, fragment Arab unity and impose control on Palestinians under the guise of realizing their aspirations.

• .. A guarantee to the future!

All of the above puts a special responsibility on Egypt and on a strong — (inaudible) — confronted with terrorism. I am confident that there are challenges that would make it incumbent upon us to work seriously and with a clear vision so that we can achieve the ambitions of our people and democracy and human dignity and in attaching importance to our youth and their aspirations in a brighter future. Our success is a guarantee to the future — of the future of our people. From this rostrum, I call on everybody to address the pandemic of Ebola in many countries of Africa. Fighting this disease is a collective responsibility. We must be able to assist those who cannot do it by themselves so that we can provide protection to our people. Distances have become shorter given the problems — given the advantages of our era. Ladies and gentlemen, this puts Egypt and its strong state a very special responsibility. Egypt confronted terrorism and extremism in the 1990s. I’m confident that Egypt will succeed in uprooting terrorism by virtue of its national identity. Egypt will always be a beacon of civilization supporting cohesion of the region, and Egyptians will never hesitate in assuming their role to that effect. Egypt considers Arab national security an integral part of its own national security on the basis of our common heritage and destiny and our longing for the stability of a region crucial to the world. Egypt’s vision of international relations is founded on the respect for the principles of international law, treaties and conventions based on mutual respect and mutual interests and benefits. As you know, Egypt is a founding member of the United Nations and has ever since strongly contributed to the realization of its roles, especially in the areas of peacekeeping, peace building and development. From this standpoint, Egypt’s aspiration to the non-permanent citizen – membership on the Security Council in the years 2016-2017 stems from its desire to make use of its membership to achieve the purposes of the organization and protect the interests of developing countries particularly in Africa as well as to accelerate the reform of the U.N. system as part of a broader vision based on the principle of equality of all nations. I therefore invite member-states to support Egypt’s candidature to the Security Council. Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen, I have conveyed to you and all humanity the message of the Egyptian people, their women before their men, their youth before their elderly.

• Two revolutions..internal and external policies!

This is a message of hope, of will and of determination to work, a message of openness to cooperate with all, to overcome all obstacles and difficulties. Let me assure you that the Egyptian people, after their two revolutions, have become the sole source of our internal and external policies in pursuit of stability and development. Egypt today has regained its self-confidence. Egypt is upholding the principles of law and freedom. Egypt, with its Arab identity and African roots, is the cradle of the Mediterranean civilian and the beacon of moderate Islam, an Egypt that aspires to resolve regional disputes and uphold the principles of justice and humanity in today’s world. I am confident that the capacity of Egypt to give — Egyptians to give is infinite. We have inherited this gift from our ancestors. It shall remain ever generous, God willing. Long live Egypt. Long live Egypt. Long live Egypt. Long live the peace-loving peoples of the world. Long live the principles of humanity and the values of tolerance and co-existence. Peace be upon you and God’s mercy and blessings as well. (Applause.)