Call to protect children from war

Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, yesterday urged the international community to protect children from war, particularly in Palestine where many are killed and others disabled by Israeli atrocities.

"The Israelis have a plan to destroy Palestinian and Arab youths. So we call upon the international community to intervene and protect youths in Palestine and other parts of the world," Sheikh Sultan told reporters at the inauguration of the 13th Amal (Hope) Camp at the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services yesterday.

Sheikh Sultan said that security could only be obtained and disability be eradicated if the international community adopted a balanced stand towards developments in the region and achieve a comprehensive and permanent peace.

"The Palestinian issue has always been our top concern. Many people are disabled in the Occupied Territories. This is caused by Israel's intransigence and aggression towards the Palestinians," Sheikh Sultan said.

He stressed the importance of promoting peace and intensifying efforts to settle disputes peacefully worldwide. He believed that the only way to avoid causing disabilities to innocent people is to achieve peace and stability.

"Unfortunately, some states have double standard policies with regard to war and violating children's rights," Sheikh Sultan added.

Sheikh Sultan said the Hope Camp had achieved tremendous development during the past 13 years, highlighting issues of concern to people of special needs and boosting public awareness of those issues.

"I am pleased to open this year's camp on behalf of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, who has always supported handicapped people," said Sheikh Sultan.

The opening ceremony was attended by sheikhs, heads of local public departments, members of the Sharjah Consultative Council, delegates representing establishments and organisations catering to the needs of people of special needs in the UAE and other GCC and Arab countries, in addition to the residents and staff of the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services.

Sheikh Sultan also toured the exhibition and various workshops in the camp. He expressed his admiration for the handcraft and art work on display.

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Hussain Madan Hussain, Head of the Bahraini delegation, appealed to the international community to work hard to spare mankind wars and the disabilities caused by such wars.

"Children all over the world are suffering a lot because of these wars which cause death and disability. We in this camp are looking forward to contributing to the promotion of peace in the world and raising new hope among people of special needs," he said.

Kaltham Obaid, Head of the Media Committee at the Camp, said that the number of war victims in the world had rapidly increased. No countries and no age group were spared.

"Let the world solve its disputes through dialogue and combating aggression," she said.

Held under the banner "Let People Avoid War Disabilities", the five-day camp comprises activities including exhibitions, workshops, and tours to various attractions, in addition to educational activities and entertainment.