Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit called on Tuesday for a unified Arab approach to tackle what he termed the "dangerous turbulence" in the international economic system and to respond to rapid global developments, particularly in the economic sphere.

Speaking at the ministerial-level preparatory meeting of the Economic and Social Council for the Arab Development Summit in Baghdad, Aboul Gheit stressed the need for Arab visions that account for the "retreat of globalization and the rise of protectionist measures," urging enhanced regional cooperation to ensure market prosperity and supply chain resilience, especially during crises.

Key Highlights from Aboul Gheit's Address:

• Collective Action Needed: Arab states would fare much better by addressing emerging challenges through a shared, flexible, and inclusive approach.

• Summit Agenda: The Arab Development Summit’s draft agenda includes critical initiatives on Arab economic integration, energy, social protection, health, education, women and youth empowerment, sustainable finance, and the Arab Vision 2045.

• Dignified Life for Citizens: Ensuring basic needs—food, clothing, housing—alongside freedoms, dignity, and rights enshrined in international covenants.

• Success Stories: Several Arab nations have made significant strides by adopting national strategies to meet citizen needs, with lessons to be shared across the region.

Meeting Context:
The preparatory session, chaired by Iraqi Trade Minister Atheer Al-Ghurairi, reviewed recommendations from senior officials’ discussions on Monday. These will shape draft resolutions for the upcoming Arab Development Summit this Saturday. Kuwait’s delegation was led by Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Economic Affairs Talal Al-Namsh.

Why It Matters:
The remarks underscore growing Arab focus on self-reliance amid global economic shifts, with supply chains and protectionism as key concerns. The summit aims to translate dialogue into actionable frameworks for regional stability.