Thursday 17 / April / 2025
Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman has voiced strong condemnation of the ongoing aggression by Israeli occupation forces against the Gaza Strip, highlighting the deliberate targeting of innocent civilians and essential infrastructure, including educational and relief facilities.
This stance was articulated during Oman's participation in the 221st Session of the UNESCO Executive Board, held at the organisation's headquarters in Paris, France, which will continue until April 17th.
Her Excellency Ambassador Amna bint Salem Al Balushi, the Permanent Delegate of Oman to UNESCO, represented Oman at the session. In her address, Ambassador Al Balushi expressed Oman's appreciation for UNESCO's successful implementation of its various programmes and projects despite prevailing global challenges. She urged the organisation to continue providing support and assistance to nations facing crises and emergencies, with a particular focus on Arab countries experiencing critical humanitarian situations, specifically the Gaza Strip in Palestine, as well as Lebanon and Yemen.
Furthermore, Ambassador Al Balushi conveyed the Sultanate's condolences to the Republic of the Union of Myanmar and the Kingdom of Thailand following the recent devastating earthquake in Myanmar. She also emphasised the urgency of accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 4 on education, and advocated for the inclusion of a specific goal on culture in the post-2030 agenda. Additionally, she stressed the need for intensified efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change and promote environmental and green education.
Ambassador Al Balushi noted that Oman has undertaken practical steps in collaboration with UNESCO's Natural Sciences Sector, including the registration of a geological park and two nature reserves aimed at preserving biodiversity and conserving natural heritage. She also affirmed Oman's appreciation for UNESCO's work in supporting member states in preserving their cultural heritage and fostering peace-building and intercultural dialogue, referencing the "Ship of Oman Youth" initiative for sustainable peace and cultural dialogue. She explained that this initiative, recognised on UNESCO's List of Best Practices, will embark on a journey next May, visiting over 23 cities across Asia, Europe, and Africa, with the aim of promoting the values of coexistence and peace among different peoples.
