15 March 2025

Saturday, 02:43

"I HOPE TO RETURN TO AZERBAIJAN"

R+ interviews the prince of the Al-Fujairah Emirate of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohammed Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi

Author:

15.07.2012

-In Baku, you took part in the International Crans Montana Forum. What does this forum give the participants and what is its significance? How do you assess its credibility in comparison with the United Nations, the European Union, the OSCE and other influential international organizations?

- I believe that the Crans Montana Forum has great authority. Indeed, despite its relatively short history, the organization raises global issues of concern to the whole world. Also, the Baku event discussed a range of global issues and made suggestions and comments. I think that the 23rd session that took place in Baku was very important and significant. We held meetings with representatives of many countries. Personally, I took a very fruitful part in the forum. This event may provide guidance for our future steps. I put forward a number of ideas on behalf of my country, we exchanged views, and I think that the negotiations on a number of issues will bear fruit.

- What problems do you think are global in the direct sense? Which of them require urgent attention because they might lead to global upheavals?

- The issue of energy security is very important. This problem must be addressed by all forces. It is also important to reduce poverty. It is necessary to increase the production of renewable energy. At the same time, correct investment in order to fairly provide everyone with energy is of great importance. The world also senses a shortage of drinking water. I think we should correctly follow the relevant UN programme on this issue. In general, there should be no competition between sources of water and energy. It is also necessary to prevent the shortage of drinking water as soon as possible, as this problem can greatly harm our planet. More than one billion people live in poverty. This problem is more acute in Africa and Asia. They need to be supported.

With the growing demand for food, demand for energy is also growing. At the same time, it is necessary to protect the environment. Given the climate change, we can understand what shocks await our nature.

- Today, along with traditional influential players in international politics, the important role of Azerbaijan is also more and more often mentioned in solving global problems you listed. This is acknowledged by international organizations in their reports. How is Azerbaijan seen from the Arab world? What attracted your attention in Baku the most?

- This was my first visit to Azerbaijan. But I had heard a lot about the changes occurring here. Now I myself witnessed the unimaginable development of your country. Economic progress is evident. Inshallah, I hope to return to Azerbaijan once again.


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