Munich security conference opens with participation of His Highness Prime Minister
The 61st Munich Security Conference commenced today, Friday, with the participation of a Kuwaiti delegation led by His Highness the Prime Minister, Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah.
The event brought together over 60 heads of state and government, along with 100 foreign and defense ministers, as well as representatives from dozens of non-governmental organizations and prominent figures from the fields of security, politics, and economics.
German President, His Excellency Frank-Walter Steinmeier opened the conference with a speech condemning the car-ramming incident that occurred in Munich on Thursday.
President Steinmeier expressed his hope that this year’s participants would engage in respectful dialogue to address international crises and conflicts.
Moreover, President Steinmeier emphasized that the world and its partners can count on Germany, despite the upcoming early elections on February 23 and the resulting government vacuum.
President Steinmeier also highlighted the Ukrainian war and its critical security implications for Europe, stating that it has presented the continent with new and pressing security challenges.
Furthermore, President Steinmeier affirmed Germany’s commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities regarding NATO expenses and urged US Vice President J.D. Vance to include European partners in all discussions preceding US decisions.
President Steinmeier urged both Europe and the United States to continue supporting Ukraine in its efforts to counter what he described as Russian aggression.
On Middle East developments, President Steinmeier criticized US President Donald Trump’s remarks on the resettlement of Gaza residents, noting that during a recent visit to Jordan, he observed strong opposition to these plans.
President Steinmeier concluded his speech by emphasizing the need to protect liberal democracy and condemning right-wing populist parties attempting to undermine democratic foundations.
Conference Chairman, Christoph Heusgen welcomed the attendees and began his speech by observing a minute of silence for the victims of the Munich truck accident.
Heusgen emphasized the Munich Security Conference’s role in fostering dialogue and bridging viewpoints to find solutions to global conflicts and address the challenges facing the international community.
Source: Al Rai
