The session was convened to elect the president and bureau of the Arab Parliament, with Al-Otaibi securing the presidency by acclamation.
In his inaugural address, Al-Otaibi expressed his gratitude to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman for their continued support and empowerment of Saudi national talent.
He said his election reflected Saudi Arabia’s prominent regional standing, influential role and longstanding commitment to strengthening joint Arab action, cooperation and solidarity.
Al-Otaibi also thanked Shoura Council Speaker Sheikh Dr. Abdullah Al Al-Sheikh for his guidance, support and confidence, describing his election as the result of coordinated institutional efforts.
He expressed appreciation to the heads of Arab legislative councils and parliaments for supporting the Arab Parliament, as well as its members for their contributions.
Outlining his priorities, Al-Otaibi said the next phase would require a renewed vision and more effective institutional performance, with a greater emphasis on translating parliamentary ambitions into concrete achievements.
He called for clear programs and initiatives capable of delivering measurable results, alongside improved efficiency, stronger partnerships and performance indicators to assess progress and impact.
Such measures, he said, would strengthen the Arab Parliament’s presence in regional and international forums and enhance its contribution to addressing issues of common Arab concern.
Al-Otaibi stressed that joint Arab action was no longer an option pursued only when necessary but an established approach to safeguarding Arab countries’ security, protecting their interests and unifying their positions.
He said solidarity, cooperation and coordinated efforts were essential to confronting the challenges facing the Arab world and enabling Arab institutions to respond more effectively.
Turning to the Palestinian issue, Al-Otaibi affirmed that it would remain at the forefront of the Arab Parliament’s priorities.
He pledged to continue defending the Palestinian people’s legitimate right to establish an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with international resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative.
He also emphasized the importance of strengthening parliamentary advocacy for the Palestinian cause across regional and international platforms.
Concluding his address, Al-Otaibi called on Arab Parliament members to work collectively to ensure the coming period delivers tangible achievements.
He said the parliament must continue serving as a unified voice for Arab positions, defending the region’s causes and interests while strengthening its influence in meeting the aspirations of Arab nations.
Source: Saudi Gazette