Saudi crown prince reiterates condemnation of Israeli actions in Gaza, calls for peace at inaugural Saudi-African summit

Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. Pic/AFP

The Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, has reiterated the Kingdom's condemnation of what he termed as the "Israeli occupation authorities' violation of international humanitarian law in Gaza," as reported by Arab News.

Addressing leaders from 50 nations at the inaugural Saudi-African Summit in Riyadh, the Crown Prince emphasized the need to halt the ongoing conflict and forced displacement, advocating for the restoration of stability and peace in the region. "We stress the necessity of stopping this war and forced displacement and creating the conditions for the return of stability and peace."

The summit, following the Saudi-Arab African Economic Summit, aimed to strengthen political coordination between African nations and Saudi Arabia. The discussions encompassed regional security threats, economic transformation through new partnerships, research initiatives, and cooperation in areas such as energy solutions and investment.

Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth affirmed support for a two-state solution, describing it as the only viable path towards lasting peace. Chad's President Mahamat Idriss Deby called for a moment of silence to remember Palestinian victims, urging immediate ceasefire and cooperation among nations facing challenges.

Deby highlighted the importance of Saudi Arabia and African nations supporting mutual development, forging partnerships based on mutual interests and respect across various domains. He expressed concern over the impact of the war in Sudan on Chad's economic and social situation, emphasizing the need for resolution and providing support to displaced Sudanese citizens.

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Leaders at the Summit praised the partnership between Saudi Arabia and Africa. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali commended Saudi Arabia's commitment to investing in Africa, particularly in renewable energy, infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, and education. He expressed Ethiopia's readiness to further enhance economic relations.

In a separate development, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met with Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad in Riyadh. The leaders discussed the strong relations between their countries and addressed the situation in the Gaza Strip, focusing on ongoing efforts to end the conflict, facilitate aid, and bring stability to the region. The meeting was attended by several ministers and senior officials from both Saudi Arabia and Qatar. (With inputs from agencies)