The UAE has underscored that rebuilding Gaza must come with a clear political roadmap, ensuring long-term stability and preventing future conflicts. Speaking at Investopia 2025, Dr. Anwar Gargash, diplomatic advisor to the UAE President, emphasized that reconstruction efforts cannot be separated from a broader political solution.
“The UAE’s stance is firm—there can be no displacement of Palestinians from Gaza. The focus must be on structured solutions that rebuild the region while ensuring we do not find ourselves in another cycle of destruction,” Gargash stated. He urged the international community to take decisive steps rather than seeking temporary fixes.
He stressed that a bold reconstruction plan is essential, but it must be accompanied by a long-term vision that guarantees Palestinians a state of their own. “We cannot afford to pour billions into reconstruction only to see the region collapse into conflict again,” he warned.
The Arab League’s Role
Egypt’s Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade, Hassan El Khatib, revealed that the details of a Palestinian development framework will be discussed at the upcoming Arab League meeting in Cairo on March 4. He highlighted the issue’s unifying effect on the Arab world, stating, “All Arab nations are aligned on this. At the core is a comprehensive strategy for Palestinians to establish their own nation. The two-state solution remains central to regional stability.”
A Shift Towards Geoeconomics
Dr. Gargash also outlined the UAE’s broader foreign policy shift, emphasizing geoeconomics as a driver for regional progress. “Our focus is on investment, trade, and technological advancements, particularly in cloud computing and AI. A thriving region benefits all, and greater cooperation among Arab nations is key,” he said.
He rejected the generalization of geopolitical risks in the Arab world, pointing out its vast diversity from the Atlantic Ocean to the Indian Ocean. He advocated for free-market principles, asserting that economic growth and opportunity are crucial for addressing the challenges of a young population with high unemployment.
The Road Ahead
Reflecting on the geopolitical upheavals of the past year, including the devastation in Gaza, South Lebanon, and the prolonged Syrian crisis, Gargash urged leaders to take stock of the situation before moving forward. “We must understand the broader implications of these conflicts. The only viable path is reconstruction with a clear political foundation—otherwise, we risk rebuilding only to see everything unravel again.”
The UAE’s message is clear: true progress requires more than financial investment; it demands a commitment to long-term peace and stability.