The United Arab Emirates (UAE) participated in an extraordinary session of the Economic and Social Council at the Arab League headquarters yesterday. This meeting was held to prepare for the upcoming ministerial session scheduled for today, where discussions will focus on the economic and social agenda for the 34th Arab Summit and the fifth Arab Economic and Social Development Summit, both set to take place in May in Baghdad.

Representing the UAE were Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy, and Ahmad bin Suleiman Al Malek, Head of the International Organizations Section at the ministry.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Haifa Abu Ghazaleh, Assistant Secretary-General and Head of the Social Affairs Sector at the Arab League, emphasized the significant role that artificial intelligence (AI) now plays in various aspects of life, particularly in economic and social contexts. She noted that technology and AI have become essential elements for the success of developmental projects across various relevant sectors.

Dr. Abu Ghazaleh added that the gathering aims to discuss important topics proposed by member states and the General Secretariat, as well as ministerial councils, for presentation at the upcoming Arab Summit and the fifth Arab Economic and Social Development Summit. She highlighted that these summits are taking place under exceptional circumstances that have greatly impacted developmental achievements in the region.