Abu Dhabi, UAE – The United Arab Emirates chaired the 49th session of the Council of Arab Ministers of Youth and Sports, held at the headquarters of the League of Arab States in Cairo over three days. Ministers of Youth and Sports and senior officials from Arab countries participated in the session, along with representatives of the League’s General Secretariat. The meeting aimed to discuss ways to enhance joint Arab cooperation in the youth and sports sectors.
The UAE delegation was headed by His Excellency Dr. Ahmed Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports. The delegation also included His Excellency Khalid Mohammed Al Nuaimi, Director of the Federal Youth Authority, and Rashid Ghanem Al Shamsi, Director of the Empowerment Department at the Authority. The delegation participated in various technical and executive meetings, including those of the Youth and Sports Committee and the Finance Committee. They also attended meetings of the Fund and the Executive Office. The delegation concluded the session with a final ministerial meeting.
In his address during the meeting, His Excellency Dr. Ahmed Belhoul Al Falasi affirmed that the UAE’s presidency of this session reflects its unwavering commitment to the directives of its wise leadership. The UAE also supports joint Arab action in the fields of youth and sports, and strengthens regional integration. Furthermore, it is unifying efforts to formulate sustainable policies that contribute to empowering youth and developing the Arab sports system. This is being done in line with the priorities of comprehensive development in Arab countries.
He noted that the UAE views youth and sports as two fundamental pillars of sustainable development and the enhancement of soft power. Through its presidency of the Council, the UAE seeks to stimulate Arab cooperation and build strategic partnerships. Moreover, it is leveraging the growing momentum in hosting regional and international championships, given their positive impact on empowering youth and strengthening Arab unity.
For his part, His Excellency Khalid Al Nuaimi emphasized that the UAE’s work within the framework of joint Arab action is based on a consistent approach that focuses on investing in human capital as the cornerstone of development. He also stressed the importance of exchanging Arab expertise and developing joint initiatives that place youth at the forefront of priorities for the next phase.
The meetings discussed a number of strategic projects and initiatives, including community, school, and women’s sports, esports, and the development of sports infrastructure. In addition, major tournaments were hosted. At the conclusion of its proceedings, the Council affirmed the importance of strengthening Arab coordination and recommended launching practical programs that meet the aspirations of Arab youth and support sustainable development.
