Mohamed Ali Nafti, Tunisia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, expressed concern about global efforts toward peace and sustainability while highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine.
He condemned the international community’s inaction and double standards regarding the war crimes committed against Palestinians by Israeli forces, calling for immediate action to end the genocide in Gaza.
He urged the UN Security Council to impose a ceasefire and hold Israel accountable, citing the International Court of Justice’s advisory ruling that Israel’s occupation of Gaza and the West Bank is illegal.
Tunisia supports Palestine’s right to statehood and full UN membership, and Nafti also condemned Israel’s attacks on Lebanon.
Shifting focus, Nafti criticized the widening economic gap between the Global North and South, calling for reforms to the international financial system and an end to interference in countries’ internal affairs.
He emphasized the need for debt restructuring to help developing nations recover from crises they did not cause. Addressing irregular migration, particularly in the Mediterranean, he called for solutions involving countries of origin, transit, and destination, while ensuring respect for human rights.
Nafti highlighted the importance of democracy, the rule of law, and anti-corruption measures for sustainable development, and emphasized the inclusion of women in public life and peacekeeping. He also supported peace efforts in Libya, Syria, and Yemen, advocating for “African solutions for African problems.”
In conclusion, he stressed that global challenges require solidarity, cooperation, and a revitalized United Nations, which remains humanity’s best hope for a better future.