By: His Excellency Khalid bin Hamoud Alkahtani, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Republic of Sri Lanka.
The world annually celebrates United Nations Day on October 24, marking the anniversary of the entry into force of the United Nations Charter in 1945, which established an international organization dedicated to promoting international peace and security, advancing sustainable development, and safeguarding human rights. This day serves as a reminder to all member states of the importance of international cooperation and collective action in addressing global challenges and fostering values of peace and mutual understanding among nations.
Since joining the United Nations as a founding member, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has held a prominent position in supporting the Organization’s objectives. The Kingdom has consistently sought to translate the principles of international cooperation into tangible action through humanitarian and relief contributions in conflict-affected areas and regions hit by natural disasters, as well as through sustained support for development programs aimed at improving the lives of people, particularly in developing countries. These efforts reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to the principles of peace, stability, and sustainable development, and convey to the world that international cooperation remains the most effective path to addressing shared global challenges.
The Kingdom’s efforts manifest across several key areas, including direct humanitarian contributions through the provision of urgent aid to those affected by conflicts and natural disasters, and support for refugees and displaced populations around the world. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia prioritizes sustainable development by investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, as well as participating in initiatives to combat poverty, hunger, and disease, demonstrating its steadfast commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In addition, the Kingdom plays a vital role in promoting values of tolerance and peaceful coexistence among peoples and cultures, while addressing shared global challenges such as climate change, food security, clean energy, and emerging technologies. These efforts align with Saudi Vision 2030, which underscores the Kingdom’s humanitarian and international role and its aspiration to make a positive and lasting impact regionally and globally.
The Kingdom also emphasizes that collective international action is the most effective means of achieving a more stable and prosperous future for humanity. Its commitment to the principles of the United Nations is not merely rhetorical but is demonstrated through active participation in UN initiatives and programs, as well as support for international decisions that promote global peace and security.
United Nations Day thus provides an opportunity to highlight shared international achievements and to renew the commitment to joint efforts in facing global challenges. In this context, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to assert its leadership as an active UN partner, contributing to the promotion of peace, development, and human rights worldwide, and affirming that international cooperation and mutual understanding constitute the foundation for building a fairer and more stable future for all humanity.
