Latest news with #ElenaPanova
Al-Ahram Weekly
4 days ago
- General
- Al-Ahram Weekly
UN coordinator commends Egypt commitment to peace, peacekeeping services - Foreign Affairs
United Nations Resident Coordinator in Egypt Elena Panova commended 'Egypt's unwavering commitment to peace' and paid tribute to the service and sacrifice of the brave Egyptian men and women in blue helmets. Panova wrote this on her X account, and the United Nations Egypt Facebook page shared it to mark the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, observed on 29 May annually. For 65 years, #Egypt has been a pillar of @UN Peacekeeping. On #PKDay, we honor its firm commitment to peace and salute the service & sacrifice of brave 🇪🇬women & men in blue helmets. In a turbulent world, Egypt remains a reliable partner in for global peace & security. @MfaEgypt — Elena Panova 🇺🇳 (@elenapanovaUN) May 28, 2025 The UN official added that Egypt remains a reliable international peace and security partner in a troubled world. "For 65 years, Egypt has been a pillar of UN Peacekeeping," she expressed. Under the theme Future of Peacekeeping, the UN will commemorate the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers with a ceremony on 3 June at the United Nations Memorial (Ariana Park). The UN said this theme reflects the evolving nature of peace operations in a complex and rapidly changing world and its efforts to modernize and adapt missions for future challenges. In a statement on Thursday, the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed appreciation for peacekeepers and their role in promoting and maintaining international peace and security. The statement also honoured the sacrifices of 60 Egyptian peacekeepers who lost their lives in the line of duty while wearing the blue helmet. Egypt has participated in 37 UN peacekeeping missions since 1960 and contributed over 30,000 personnel to 24 countries. According to the statement, Egypt is one of the leading countries contributing to UN peacekeeping missions. This reflects its commitment to achieving global security and to the UN charter. Currently, the country contributes 1,205 personnel to UN peacekeeping missions. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
See - Sada Elbalad
4 days ago
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
Standing Between Conflict and Hope: Time to Equip UN Peacekeepers for Tomorrow's Challenges
Joint Op-ed by Ambassador Khaled El Bakly & Elena Panova As the United Nations marks its 80th anniversary, the legacy of UN peacekeeping stands as one of the clearest and most enduring expressions of multilateral cooperation. For nearly eight decades, the service and sacrifice of Blue Helmets have saved and changed lives—helping countries navigate the difficult path from war to peace. From Cyprus to Lebanon, and from the Central African Republic to South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, more than 76,000 civilian, military, and police personnel currently serve in 11 missions around the world. These men and women offer a lifeline to millions living in some of the world's most fragile political and security environments. In light of these growing pressures, it is essential to rethink the role of peacekeeping within the broader international peace and security architecture. As President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi has rightly asserted 'peacekeeping—while a vital tool of the international community—should not be viewed as the sole means of maintaining peace'. H.E further emphasized that 'it cannot substitute preventive diplomacy, mediation, peacebuilding, or the political, economic, and social measures necessary to address root causes and mend societal fractures', underscoring that 'peacekeeping must not become the default or immediate response to every crisis'. This year's International Day of UN Peacekeepers is observed under the theme 'The Future of Peacekeeping'—a theme that could not be more timely or relevant. Peacekeeping today faces mounting and unprecedented challenges. Conflicts are growing longer, deadlier, and more complex. They increasingly spill across borders and are exacerbated by terrorism, organized crime, cyber warfare, disinformation, and the weaponization of technology. Climate change, meanwhile, deepens instability in already-vulnerable regions. And divergent views within the UN Security Council have made consensus more elusive — slowing the pace of action, precisely when urgency is most needed. As UN Secretary-General António Guterres bluntly put it: 'Trust is in short supply among—and within—countries and regions… This is a grim diagnosis, but we must face facts.' Among the most urgent issues is the growing and persistent mismatch between what peacekeeping missions are asked to achieve and the resources that are not available to do so. This undermines effectiveness and places peacekeepers in situations 'where there is little or no peace to keep'. The Pact for the Future, adopted at the 2024 Summit of the Future, offers a moment of reckoning—and opportunity. It affirms that peace operations can only succeed when backed by political will and accompanied by inclusive strategies that address the root causes of conflict. It rightly emphasizes the need for peacekeeping missions to be supported by predictable, adequate, and sustained financing. The Pact also mandates a comprehensive review of UN peace operations—a chance to rethink and reform the peacekeeping model. Today's high-risk environments demand that missions be equipped with the right tools, partnerships, and strategies to protect civilians and support peacebuilding effectively. Egypt, through its 65 years of active participation in United Nations peacekeeping has long demonstrated a strong, sustained and unwavering commitment to the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter. Since it first deployed troops to the UN Operation in the Congo in 1960, Egypt has contributed over 30,000 of its sons and daughters to 37 missions across 24 countries and has consistently remained one of the top contributors of uniformed personnel to UN peacekeeping. Egypt currently has 1205 peacekeepers, including women, serving across five missions in Africa Egypt's longstanding record of service and sacrifice in peacekeeping is globally recognized. This is reflected in its re-election as Rapporteur of the UN Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations, its recent election to the UN Peacebuilding Commission, and its appointment as co-facilitator for the upcoming 2025 Peacebuilding Architecture Review in both the General Assembly and the Security Council. Egypt's leadership in peacekeeping is not limited to troop contributions. It plays an active role in shaping strategic thinking around reform. Through the Cairo International Center for Conflict Resolution, Peacekeeping and Peacebuilding (CCCPA)—an African Union Center of Excellence. Egypt has championed context-sensitive, innovative, and inclusive peace operations. The CCCPA emphasizes prevention, civilian protection, and regional partnerships while strengthening the participation of women in peacekeeping, in line with the Women, Peace and Security agenda. Through the CCCPA annual Aswan Forum, Egypt further promotes African-led solutions and stronger peacekeeping–peacebuilding synergies. This work, carried out in close cooperation with the UN in Egypt, is a prime example of effective South-South cooperation and the value of locally driven solutions. Egypt also actively contributes to training African and international uniformed peacekeepers through specialized facilities operated by the Ministry of Interior via the Egyptian Center for Peacekeeping Operations, and by the Ministry of Defense through its Liaison Agency with International Organizations (LAWIO). Egypt is also a staunch supporter of the UN Secretary-General's Action for Peacekeeping (A4P) initiative. In 2018, Egypt convened a landmark high-level international conference aimed at improving peacekeeping effectiveness. The event led to the 'Cairo Roadmap for Peacekeeping Operations,' a concrete framework of shared commitments that was later endorsed by the African Union in 2020. This year, as we remember the 4,430 peacekeepers who have given their lives in the pursuit of peace, we must go beyond commemoration by upholding the principles for which they paid the ultimate sacrifice. Over 60 Egyptian peacekeepers have sacrificed their lives while serving as part of UN operations across the globe. Their sacrifice is a sobering reminder of the growing risks peacekeepers face, and our collective duty to ensure they are provided with the necessary means to fulfill their mandates. At the recently concluded 2025 UN Peacekeeping Ministerial in Berlin this May, Egypt reaffirmed its strong commitment to advancing UN peacekeeping through planned deployments, the preparation of well-trained officers, and expanded training efforts. It pledged to provide specialized capabilities, deploy qualified personnel to UN missions, and enhance training in coordination with international partners. Egypt also highlighted the importance of integrating technology, drawing on lessons from regional transitions, and promoting gender parity—underscoring its intention to surpass the UN's targets for women's participation in uniformed roles. As the United Nations continues to face significant challenges and in the context of a region affected by multiple conflicts, Egypt has stood firm as a staunch and reliable partner to global peace and security. Furthermore, Egypt has expressed its readiness to provide all necessary support for the UN80 initiative this year in order to help make it a success to achieve effectiveness and rationalization to help meet the acute financial challenges faced by the United Nations and peacekeeping. In that regard, Egypt's readiness and preparedness to host United Nations' agencies, programs and offices that might be up for relocation as per the UN80 initiative is to be highly commended. Egypt's strategic location—at the crossroads of Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East—positions it as a natural hub for connectivity and cooperation. Its central time zone and proximity to key regions make it an ideal and cost-effective location, reducing travel time and facilitating seamless coordination. With direct access to both the Red Sea and the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal - a vital artery of global trade - Egypt offers unmatched maritime connectivity. It's highly connected international airports and geographical proximity to conflict zones further enhances its relevance as a center for diplomacy, crisis response and peacekeeping efforts. Egypt's vast experience with peacekeeping and related provision of humanitarian assistance are certainly also worth highlighting as advantageous. As host to multiple international and regional organizations and offices including the seat of the League of Arab States and with over 140 represented embassies in Cairo, Egypt remains a geo-political hub with an already strong United Nations' presence, a modern infrastructure, and well-recognized levels of safety. As the Secretary-General has said: 'Now more than ever, the world needs the United Nations—and the United Nations needs peacekeeping that is fully equipped for today's realities and tomorrow's challenges.' Peacekeeping missions are under strain. However, with renewed multilateral resolve, adequate resourcing, and bold reforms, we can empower UN peacekeepers to remain a vital force for peace, stability, and hope in a troubled world, and Egypt, in cooperation with the United Nations remains at the forefront of nations providing such support. read more Analysis- Turkey Has 0 Regional Allies... Why? Analysis: Russia, Turkey... Libya in Return For Syria? Analysis: Who Will Gain Trump's Peace Plan Fruits? Analysis: Will Turkey's Erdogan Resort to Snap Election? Analysis: What Are Turkey's Aspirations in Iraq? Opinion & Analysis Analysis: Mercenaries In Libya... Who Should Be Blamed? Opinion & Analysis Analysis- How 'Libya Nightmare' Takes Erdogan to Algiers Opinion & Analysis Analysis: What Happens After Brexit? Opinion & Analysis Analysis: Strategic Significance of Libya's Sirte, Jufra! 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See - Sada Elbalad
23-03-2025
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
Speech by Ms. Elena Panova, UN Resident Coordinator to the Arab Republic of Egypt
Taarek Refaat Speech by Ms. Elena Panova, UN Resident Coordinator to the Arab Republic of Egypt The National Initiative for Smart Green Projects Conference Date and Venue: Sunday, 23 March 2025, The St. Regis, New Capital His Excellency Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly Her Excellency Dr. Rania Al-Mashat – Minister of International Cooperation and Economic Development Planning His Excellency Dr. Badr Abdel Aati, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs Her Excellency Manal Awad Mikhael, Minister of Local Development His Excellency Dr. Ayman Ashour, the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research His Excellency, Amr Ahmed Samih Talaat, the Minister of Communications and Information Technology Her Excellency, Dr. Yasmine Fouad, the Minister of Environment, Ambassador Mohamed Badr – General Coordinator of the Initiative distinguished guests, colleagues, and esteemed entrepreneurs. It is a great honor to join you today in celebrating the third round of the National Initiative for Smart Green Projects. For the past three years, this initiative has showcased the power of local solutions in driving national progress and has become a testament to Egypt's commitment to climate action and sustainable development. It has proven that innovation is not just an abstract goal but a tangible force for change, one that can reshape industries, empower communities, and accelerate Egypt's green transition. Allow me to extend my deepest congratulations to the Government of Egypt, and the partners involved, with special recognition to Ambassador Mohamed for his exceptional dedication in making this this event truly inspiring. Your leadership in positioning Egypt as a regional leader in climate action is both commendable and essential. At its core, the National Initiative for Smart Green Projects breathes life into the Sustainable Development Goals. It turns national commitments into real impact, from the bustling streets of Cairo to the most remote villages. And that is where true transformation begins: at the local level. Ladies and gentlemen, today we celebrate the entrepreneurs, the innovators, and the communities who are pioneering green solutions, not just for climate resilience, but for economic empowerment. Their work sends a clear message: the green transition must be inclusive. It must create opportunities for youth, women, and marginalized communities, ensuring that no one is left behind. The United Nations is proud to stand as a partner on this journey. And I want to commend my UN colleagues at UN-Habitat, UNIDO, UN Women, FAO, and WFP, UNHCR for supporting this initiative from its very inception, each contributing expertise, technical assistance, and networks to help designing and implementing these grassroot projects. But beyond recognition, our commitment is action. The climate challenge ahead is vast, but so are the solutions within our grasp. Now is the time to accelerate action, scale up innovation, and build a greener, more sustainable future for all in Egypt. On behalf of the United Nations in Egypt, I reaffirm our unwavering commitment to supporting Egypt's efforts to advance its climate leadership and set a model for the region, by turning smart green projects into national success stories. Congratulations once again to the inspiring entrepreneurs and all their partners that have made this possible. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Lifestyle Pistachio and Raspberry Cheesecake Domes Recipe Videos & Features Bouchra Dahlab Crowned Miss Arab World 2025 .. Reem Ganzoury Wins Miss Arab Africa Title (VIDEO) News Ireland Replaces Former Israeli Embassy with Palestinian Museum News Israeli PM Diagnosed with Stage 3 Prostate Cancer Lifestyle Maguy Farah Reveals 2025 Expectations for Pisces News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple
See - Sada Elbalad
13-02-2025
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
Cairo Hosts Conference Celebrating 80 Years of Egypt-UN Partnership
In commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the United Nations' establishment, the conference titled 'Egypt and the United Nations: Eighty Years of Contribution' commenced today in Cairo. The event is organized in collaboration with the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Department of Multilateral Affairs and International Security, the United Nations system in Egypt, and the Faculty of Economics and Political Science at Cairo University. The conference aims to review the longstanding partnership between Egypt and the UN and highlight Egypt's active role in promoting international peace, security, and development. The opening session was attended by Ambassador Amr Al-Goweili, Assistant Foreign Minister for Multilateral Affairs and International Security; Elena Panova, UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt; Dr. Mohamed Sami Abdel-Sadek, President of Cairo University; and Dr. Hanan Ali, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Political Science and Chair of the Conference. The event also welcomed a distinguished audience of officials, experts, academics, and representatives from various UN agencies in Egypt. In her opening remarks, Elena Panova emphasized the significance of Egypt's role within the United Nations. 'As a founding member of the UN, Egypt has a distinguished track record over the past 80 years, as a responsible, substantive, and committed multilateral partner,' Panova noted. She further highlighted Egypt's historic leadership, stating, 'The leadership role of Egypt stretches back to the founding of the Non-Aligned Movement and is visible to date in the voice of authority that Egypt brings to the G77.' The conference features a series of panel discussions showcasing Egypt's diverse contributions to the UN system: The first session focused on Egypt's role in maintaining international peace and security, including its efforts in disarmament and peacekeeping missions. It was chaired by Prof. Mohamed Salman Tayie, Professor of Political Science at Cairo University, with contributions from Ambassador Saifallah Kandil, Director of the Cairo International Center for Conflict Resolution, Peacekeeping, and Peacebuilding, alongside other senior officials. The second session examined Egypt's impact on international development, covering global economic relations, environmental issues, climate change, and urban development. Speakers included Ambassador Wael Aboulmagd, Assistant Foreign Minister for Climate, Environment, and Sustainable Development; Alessandro Fracassetti, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Egypt; and Ahmed Rizk, Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) Office in Egypt, among other specialists. The third session highlighted Egypt's contributions to specialized international agencies and regional economic communities, while the fourth session explored Egypt's involvement in empowering women, healthcare, population issues, and food security. Panelists included Jean-Pierre Demargerie, Country Director of the World Food Programme (WFP) in Egypt; Dr. Naeema Al-Gasseer, WHO Representative in Egypt; Marwa Elmadany, Acting Representative of UN Women in Egypt; Yves Sassenrath, UNFPA Representative in Egypt; and Dr. Ahmed Mokhtar, Director of Technical and Economic Programs at the FAO Regional Office for the Near East and North Africa. This conference reflects the commitment of Egypt and the United Nations to strengthening their partnership to achieve shared goals in sustainable development, international peace, and security. It serves as a platform for constructive dialogue among experts and policymakers to shape future collaboration and support Egypt's role within the UN system. The conference is scheduled to conclude tomorrow with the release of recommendations aimed at enhancing cooperation between Egypt and the United Nations, contributing to sustainable development, stability, and prosperity.
