ALECSO executive council chief condemns Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia

The 125th regular session of the Executive Council of the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO) began today in Muscat, Oman, chaired by Saudi Arabia and attended by member states. The session will continue until November 10.

In his address, Executive Council Chairman Hani bin Muqbil Al-Muqbil condemned the ongoing attacks by the Houthi militia on Saudi territory and its vital and civilian facilities, describing them as violations of international law and a threat to regional security.

Al-Muqbil emphasized that Saudi Arabia gives ALECSO its full attention and support, noting the Saudi leadership’s commitment to enabling the organization to fulfill its mission. He also conveyed greetings from Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, Minister of Culture and President of ALECSO’s General Conference, and expressed gratitude for the prince’s unwavering support.

Al-Muqbil stressed that Saudi Arabia affirms its legitimate right to protect its security, sovereignty, territory, citizens, and residents, and highlighted the importance of safeguarding the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors. He stated that targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure is an unacceptable responsibility.

Al-Muqbil explained that Saudi Arabia’s chairmanship of the Executive Council, which has spanned three consecutive terms from July 2021 to November 2026, has gone through five phases, including establishing operational foundations, developing the organization, and enhancing sustainability. He noted that the council achieved a significant leap in five years, with 34 initiatives proposed by 15 countries, representing 26% of all member state proposals since ALECSO’s founding.

He added that the current session marks the end of Saudi Arabia’s chairmanship, affirming the commitment to continued efforts and the accumulation of expertise for future generations.

For his part, Dr. Raed Al-Jubouri, representative of the General Secretariat of the Arab League, reiterated the League’s support for specialized organizations and called for greater use of ALECSO’s programs, commending the Executive Council’s efforts.

The council discussed several topics, including follow-up on the implementation of decisions from the 27th General Conference and the 124th council session, and reviewed the draft agenda for the 28th General Conference.

During Saudi Arabia’s chairmanship, ALECSO launched 69 initiatives, including two international conferences, the formation of 15 general, special, and temporary committees, the adoption of 10 institutional products and three strategies, and the signing of 31 partnership agreements worth $7.6 million. The Kingdom also provided annual training support valued at $70,000.