Latest news with #UNCharter
See - Sada Elbalad
a day ago
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
FM Meets Ban Ki-moon to Discuss UN Reform, Gaza Crisis
Nada Mustafa Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Migration, received former United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Saturday. Abdelatty praised Ban Ki-moon's efforts during his leadership of the United Nations, as well as his current contributions to international discourse and his dedication to promoting peace, justice, and environmental protection through his membership in "The Elders." Moreover, FM emphasized that Egypt consistently works to uphold and stabilize the multilateral international system and supports its role in confronting the world's interlinked global challenges. He also stressed the importance of cooperation as a vital means to promote both regional and international stability and development, especially amid unprecedented geopolitical and economic developments around the world. In this context, Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt's steadfast commitment to the core principles of the UN Charter since joining the organization. He noted that Egypt's foreign policy has been grounded in these principles and reaffirmed the country's commitment to the United Nations' central role in maintaining international peace and security and promoting sustainable development for all nations. Furthermore, FM outlined Egypt's position regarding the evolving situation in Gaza, highlighting Cairo's intensive efforts to achieve a ceasefire. He also addressed the catastrophic humanitarian crisis in the strip caused by Israel's blatant violations of international law and international humanitarian law. In addition, he reaffirmed that Egypt will continue its efforts, alongside the United States and Qatar, to achieve a ceasefire, ensure the safe and sustained delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, and support the political horizon for a two-state solution. 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 Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan
Mint
a day ago
- Politics
- Mint
United Nations to cut 20% jobs amid funding shortfall - What US contributes and how UN budget works?— EXPLAINED
Over 60 offices, agencies, and operations of the United Nations have been asked to submit proposals by mid-June to reduce their staff by 20%. This initiative is part of a significant reform effort aimed at consolidating operations due to a severe funding shortfall, AP reported. The UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, highlighted that the proposed job cuts are a result of diminishing UN resources over the past seven years, as several member countries either fail to pay their annual dues or do not pay them on time. A funding shortfall is compelling the UN to reduce expenditure and freeze recruitment, affecting its capacity to implement mandated programmes and exposing the it to increasing 'reputational risk,' the fifth committee (Administrative and Budgetary) of UN discussed on May 19, 2025, while exploring the possible solutions as well. Guterres also denied any connection between the job cuts and the withdrawal of foreign aid and other programmes by US President Donald Trump. Notably, the proposal to reduce the workforce comes after President Trump announced funding cuts to the global organisation. After entering the White House for the second time, Trump issued an executive order seeking a general review of all US contributions to the UN. Following this, the administration announced it would not resume funding for UNRWA. Additionally, Trump issued an executive order halting most US foreign aid for ninety days and also announced withdrawal from the WHO, stating it 'continues to demand unfairly onerous payments from the United States.' The US was expected to pay 22% of the regular budget of the UN. In 2024, of the 193 member countries, 152 paid their dues in full, including China, while 41 countries, including the United States, did not. Since its founding in 1945, the US has remained the largest contributor to the UN. In 2023, the US contributed almost $13 billion, making up over a quarter of the total funding for the collective budget of the global body, according to the latest available data on the UN Chief System Executives Board for Coordination. Nearly 24 per cent of this total was assessed, 75 per cent was voluntary, while the rest came from other activities. According to the UN Charter, all 193 member states of the United Nations must make payments to specific sections of the organization as a requirement for membership. This amount, paid annually, is known as the assessed contribution, which differs across countries based on a formula that considers gross national income, debt burden, and population and other factors. These payments fund the regular budget of the UN, covering the administrative costs and expenses of core activities such as special political missions and peacekeeping operations. In addition to these mandatory payments, countries can also make voluntary contributions. Several UN organisations, including the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and the World Food Programme (WFP), primarily depend on these contributions, which are viewed as discretionary funding. The job cuts include nearly 14,000 posts under the regular budget or 2,800 posts, AP quoted UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric. This includes staff in the UN political and humanitarian offices, along with its agencies that assist refugees, promote gender equality, and address issues related to international trade, the environment, and urban development. UNRWA, the agency supporting Palestinian refugees is also included. Multiple UN agencies were preparing to reduce their workforce or implement other cost-cutting measures. Officials have highlighted funding cuts primarily from the United States, cautioning that essential relief programs will be significantly impacted as a consequence. The World Food Programme (WFP) may reduce its workforce by up to 30%, while the head of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) informed of plans to cut costs by 30% and reduce senior-level positions by 50%, according to internal memos obtained by the AP. In addition to WFP and UNHCR, United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) are expected to make cuts, the report said.
Express Tribune
2 days ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
China sets up int'l mediation body in HK
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis pose for a photograph after a signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of The International Organization for Mediation in Hong Kong. Photo: Reuters Listen to article China signed a convention setting up an international organisation for mediation in Hong Kong on Friday that Beijing hopes will be on par with the International Court of Justice and bolster the city's international credentials. The move comes amid growing geopolitical tensions that have been exacerbated by US President Donald Trump's global trade war and fuelled risks of a sharp worldwide economic downturn. Pakistan became a co-signatory to the IOMed, a statement by the Foreign Office said. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar signed the convention establishing the organisation during a ceremony attended by officials from several countries, including Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos and Serbia. Representatives from around 20 international organisations, including the United Nations, were also expected to participate, according to Hong Kong's public broadcaster RTHK. "IOMeD also offers new opportunities and fresh hopes to build a more inclusive, more just and more equitable world. As one of the founding members of IOMed, Pakistan would continue to be an active voice in this noble mission," the statement quoted him as saying. Speaking at the high-profile gathering, Dar lauded the visionary leadership of the People's Republic of China for spearheading the creation of IOMed. He hailed China for once again leading a transformative initiativecomparable in impact to the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). The DPM underlined that Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful conflict resolution by becoming a founding member of the newly established International Organization for Mediation (IOMed). Senator Dar described the establishment of IOMed as "the birth of an important global institution dedicated to mediation and peaceful dispute resolution," and commended the selection of Hong Kong as the organization's headquarters. Calling the city a "super connector," he noted its symbolic value in bridging East and West. Reiterating Pakistan's dedication to the principles of the UN Charter and international law, Dar highlighted the country's recent efforts, including the establishment of the International Mediation and Arbitration Center (IMAC) in Pakistan, aimed at advancing commercial dispute resolution. The Foreign Minister also used the platform to draw attention to pressing global conflicts, citing unresolved issues such as Jammu and Kashmir and the occupied Palestinian territories, and warned against the rise of unilateralism and populism. The mediation body aims to cement Hong Kong's presence as a top centre to resolve disputes between countries, leader John Lee said earlier this week, adding that it's status would be on par with the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration of the United Nations in The Hague. Indonesia, Pakistan, Laos, Cambodia and Serbia were among the countries attending the signing ceremony. Representatives from 20 international bodies including the United Nations were also expected to join, public broadcaster RTHK said.
Business Recorder
2 days ago
- Politics
- Business Recorder
China's global mediation body: Pakistan becomes co-signatory
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has become a co-signatory to China's newly setup Hong Kong-based International Organisation for Mediation (IOMed), Foreign Office (FO) spokesperson said in a statement on Friday. According to details, Pakistan, Indonesia, Laos, Cambodia and Serbia were among the countries attending the signing ceremony, while representatives from 20 international bodies and organisations, including the United Nations, were also present to sign the Convention on Establishment of IOMed. Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Friday, signed on behalf of Pakistan, the Convention on the establishment of IOMed in Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of People's Republic of China, the spokesperson added. Speaking on the occasion, the deputy prime minister appreciated the Chinese leadership for its wisdom in developing and consistently leading efforts for the establishment of IOMed and in fostering a global community with a shared future. Dar stated that the creation of IOMed underscores the indispensability and significance of multilateralism as the centre piece for international peace, stability, and development. 'The IOMeD also offers new opportunities and fresh hopes to build a more inclusive, more just and more equitable world. As one of the founding members of IOMed, Pakistan would continue to be an active voice in this noble mission,' he added. Dar underlined Pakistan's strong commitment towards promoting peace and security as well as development. He underlined the critical importance of advancing and preserving multilateralism through faithful adherence to the principles of the UN Charter, full implementation of UN Security Council resolutions as well as international law. Dar drew attention to India's violation of international law through its acts of aggression against Pakistan and its unlawfully holding in abeyance of the Indus Waters Treaty. He also highlighted the occupation of Jammu and Kashmir and occupied Palestinian Territories as drivers of conflict to regional peace and security. Dar called for resolution of the longstanding Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions and wishes of the Kashmiri people. The idea for the establishment of the IOMed was one of the key outcomes of the second Belt and Road Forum held in Beijing in April 2019. China initiated discussions for the establishment of IOMed in 2021, and invited Pakistan to join negotiations as one of its founding members. The organization is open to all countries; is based on respect for the sovereignty, core interests and legitimate concerns of every country; aims to promote dialogue and trust between parties concerned based on equality; and desires inclusion of various legal systems, and their mediators. Meanwhile, Dar met with Chief Executive John Lee of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China. The deputy prime minister congratulated the Chief Executive on the successful establishment of IOMed while highlighting Hong Kong's unique role as a global hub linking East and West and its growing significance in international mediation. Recalling long-standing friendship between Pakistan and Hong Kong, the deputy prime minister/foreign minister commended the Chief Executive and SAR Government for its impressive economic and social development strides under the 'One Country, Two Systems' framework. Dar and Chief Executive discussed proposals to further deepen economic, investment and trade cooperation with Hong Kong through multiple streams. Hailing the launch of IOMed as a milestone inspired by President Xi Jinping's vision, Dar noted its alignment with Pakistan's commitment to dialogue-driven diplomacy and UN Charter's principles. Dar also commended the Pakistani community in Hong Kong for strengthening bilateral ties and contributing to the city's diversity and economy. The Chief Executive warmly welcomed Dar's visit and expressed eagerness to further enhance collaboration between Hong Kong and Pakistan. Dar is in Hong Kong to attend the official ceremony for signing the Convention on establishment of IOMed. AFP adds: China signed a convention setting up a global mediation body in Hong Kong, which aims to be comparable to organisations such as the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Beijing has taken a more proactive approach in international affairs in recent years, expanding its influence in global bodies such as the United Nations and the World Health Organization — especially as the United States has taken the opposite direction under President Donald Trump. The move is also being seen as an attempt to shore up Hong Kong's reputation as a leading place to conduct business, after Beijing's imposition of a wide-ranging national security law in 2020 shook confidence in the impartiality of the city's legal system. Initiated by Beijing, the establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) was co-signed by 31 other 'like-minded' countries ranging from Serbia and Pakistan to Papua New Guinea and Venezuela. 'The birth of IOMed will help transcend the zero-sum mentality of 'win or lose', promote the amicable resolution of international disputes, and build more harmonious international relations,' said China's foreign minister Wang Yi, who presided over the signing. Hong Kong's government said IOMed will be the first intergovernmental body dedicated to mediation, while Wang said it would 'fill a gap in the field'. Mediation is when a neutral third party intervenes into a dispute to help two sides negotiate a jointly acceptable resolution to a conflict, as opposed to, for example, political bargaining or litigation. The body will mediate disputes between countries, between countries and individuals from another country, and between private international entities. IOMed 'is on a par with' the United Nations' ICJ and the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, said the Hong Kong government. One of the latter's more well-known rulings was in favour of the Philippines against China over territorial claims in the South China Sea. Beijing refused to take part in the proceedings and has ignored the judgement. Paul Lam, Hong Kong's secretary for justice, wrote in an article that IOMed's establishment came as 'hostile external forces are attempting to de-internationalise and de-functionalise' Hong Kong. IOMed will start operating by the end of this year or early 2026. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Morocco World
2 days ago
- Politics
- Morocco World
Sahara: For Dominica, Morocco's Autonomy Plan ‘The Compromise Solution'
Doha – The Commonwealth of Dominica forcefully reasserted its 'full support' for Morocco's Autonomy Plan at the UN Committee of 24 (C24) regional seminar recently held in Dili, Timor-Leste, declaring it 'the solution of compromise' to the Western Sahara regional dispute. Dominica's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Philbert Aaron, proclaimed that the autonomy initiative aligns perfectly with international law, the UN Charter, and the resolutions of both the Security Council and General Assembly. 'The development of the Sahara has been manifested by the improvement of infrastructure and healthcare, education and housing,' Ambassador Aaron declared, commending Morocco's extensive development efforts that have transformed living conditions and created substantial opportunities for local populations. The diplomat renewed his country's call for continued engagement by Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania, and the separatist Polisario group in the roundtable process, conforming to Security Council resolution 2703. He also spotlighted the UN Secretary-General's crucial role in advancing settlement efforts and recognized Staffan de Mistura's contribution in revitalizing the political process as the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy for the Sahara. During the same C24 seminar, Senegal and Côte d'Ivoire amplified their support for Morocco's autonomy initiative. Senegal's Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Diamane Diome, revealed that 117 countries—over 60% of UN member states, including two permanent Security Council members—back this initiative. Read also: Dominica Commends King Mohammed VI South-South Cooperation Vision He also trumpeted Morocco's human rights achievements in its southern provinces, which earned recognition in Security Council resolution 2756. Côte d'Ivoire's representative unequivocally reaffirmed his country's 'full support' for Morocco's proposal, underscoring how it empowers Sahara inhabitants to actively participate in the region's political and socio-economic management through democratic elections. Both African countries applauded Morocco's steadfast adherence to the ceasefire and military agreements while urging other parties to avoid actions undermining the political process. This is not the first time Dominica endorses Morocco's position. Earlier in April 2024, Dominica's Foreign Affairs Minister Vince Henderson restated his country's support for the Moroccan Autonomy Plan as the 'only credible, serious, and realistic solution' to the dispute over Western Sahara during talks with his Moroccan counterpart Nasser Bourita in Rabat. In June 2024, Ambassador Aaron told the UN Committee of C24 that 'Dominica fully supports the autonomy plan presented by the Kingdom of Morocco to end the Sahara conflict and views it as the foundation for a realistic and pragmatic solution towards stability and peace in the region.' The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), of which Dominica has been a member since 1981, opened a consulate in Dakhla, Western Sahara on March 31, 2022, joining African and Arab countries that have established diplomatic missions there in a sign of support for Morocco's sovereignty over its southern provinces. Tags: Autonomy Plan for the SaharaThe Commonwealth of Dominica
