Jordanian Minister Urges Global Cooperation and Peace in Gaza

In a world increasingly defined by its challenges, the call for global cooperation has never been more urgent. Jordan's Minister of Planning and International Development, Zeina Toukan, recently addressed the Summit of the Future at the United Nations headquarters in New York, emphasizing the need for collective action to tackle pressing issues that hinder the achievement of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With only six years remaining until the 2030 deadline, Toukan's message resonates with a sense of urgency.

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by UN member states in 2015, outlines a comprehensive framework aimed at fostering peace and prosperity for all. It encompasses 17 goals, including the eradication of poverty, enhancement of public health and education, promotion of equality, and stimulation of economic growth. However, achieving these ambitious targets requires a concerted effort from nations worldwide.

Toukan highlighted that global development hinges on cooperation among countries. She stressed the importance of establishing a robust multilateral system that allows all nations to benefit from development. Trust is the cornerstone of this cooperation, and without it, progress remains elusive.

To foster growth, the international community must prioritize innovation and creativity, according to Toukan. She advocated for reforms in the international financial system to ensure it is equitable and does not stifle the economic potential of certain nations. This approach is vital for creating an environment where all countries can thrive.

Recognizing the pivotal role of youth in shaping the future, Toukan stated, "Youth deserves a better future: a future of justice, peace, and opportunities." She underscored the necessity of involving young people in public affairs, both nationally and internationally, as their participation is crucial for the well-being of the global community.

Addressing contemporary challenges is essential for paving the way to a brighter tomorrow. Toukan welcomed the adoption of a new "global digital compact" as a significant milestone. This initiative, part of the Pact for the Future, aims to integrate advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, into economies, thereby enhancing opportunities for citizens. The compact also commits governments to uphold international law and human rights in digital spaces, ensuring safety and security online.

However, the conversation took a somber turn as Toukan condemned "Israel's barbaric war on the Palestinian people," calling for an immediate end to the conflict. She described the situation in Gaza as a "human catastrophe," highlighting the plight of vulnerable populations worldwide. Since the onset of the war between Israel and Hamas on October 7 of last year, over 41,000 lives have been lost in Gaza, predominantly affecting women and children.

Toukan remarked, "The vast destruction and forced displacement is a testament to the brutality of this war," emphasizing the dire consequences of the ongoing conflict. She warned that Israel is creating a "lost generation deprived of peace and hope," facing a future filled with lost opportunities.

For lasting peace and stability in the region, Toukan asserted that the establishment of a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital is imperative. She urged the international community to avoid double standards and to take decisive action to help end the conflict while ensuring compliance with international laws and UN resolutions.

The call for a more inclusive global development strategy and an end to the conflict in Gaza is not just a plea for immediate action; it is a reminder of our shared responsibility to foster a world where justice, peace, and opportunity are accessible to all. As nations grapple with their challenges, the importance of unity and cooperation cannot be overstated. The future depends on our collective efforts to create a better tomorrow for generations to come.