Saad al-Otaibi of Saudi Arabia was elected unopposed as the president of the Arab Parliament during a procedural session held at the Arab League General Secretariat in Cairo on October 24. Al-Otaibi emphasized that joint Arab action has become an established approach vital for strengthening the security of Arab states, safeguarding their interests, and unifying their positions. He highlighted the importance of solidarity, cooperation, and coordinated efforts to address regional challenges and enhance the effectiveness of Arab institutions.

Al-Otaibi also reaffirmed the Arab Parliament’s continued commitment to the Palestinian cause, describing it as a foremost priority. He reiterated unwavering support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, particularly the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.

In the same session, Qatar was elected to the presidency of the Foreign, Political, and National Security Affairs Committee of the Arab Parliament. Mubarak bin Mohammed al-Kuwari, a member of Qatar’s Shura Council, was chosen for the position by acclamation. He reflected that the election signifies the respect and appreciation of Arab states for Qatar’s active role in reinforcing joint Arab action. Al-Kuwari stressed Qatar’s dedication to consultation and coordination with other Arab nations to intensify cooperation and promote collective Arab interests.

The session also included the election of the Parliament’s four vice-presidents: Saeed bin Hamad al-Saadi from Oman, Hisham Salah Ahmed al-Hosari from Egypt, Ihsan Zuhdi Barakat from Jordan, and Dr. Abdul Salam Abdullah Nasiya from Libya.

This procedural meeting marked the beginning of the third session of the Arab Parliament’s fourth legislative term, with preparatory meetings scheduled ahead of its formal convening. The focus on joint Arab action and regional security issues underlines ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional responses to the challenges facing the Arab world.