Doha, November 4 (QNA) – HE Omani Minister of Social Development, Dr. Laila bint Ahmed Al Najjar, underlined the importance of achieving social inclusion and promoting justice and equality by making them a priority in national programs and policies.

In her address at the Second World Summit for Social Development, currently being held in Doha, the Omani Minister of Social Development stated that the Sultanate of Oman attaches great importance to the field of social development, considering this vital sector the foundation for building the Omani citizen.

She pointed to the efforts being made to eradicate poverty, which is the first goal of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, through the launch of the social protection system.

This system represents a qualitative leap towards integration and justice in the distribution of social benefits, in addition to providing direct financial support services and developing economic empowerment programs, housing and health support programs, and free education.

She discussed her country's efforts to provide decent work through the adoption of the National Employment Strategy, which aims to balance education and training with labor market demands. This strategy includes encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation as promising pathways to creating decent job opportunities.

She highlighted the importance of social inclusion and promoting justice and equality by prioritizing them in the Sultanate of Oman's national programs and policies.

These include the adoption of the Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the expansion of inclusive rehabilitation and employment programs, ensuring access to educational and health services for this group, and the launch of integrated care programs for the elderly, family counseling programs, and initiatives to prevent domestic violence and protect children.

She stressed the need for periodic evaluation and review of progress, and addressing challenges through the continuous development of social monitoring and evaluation systems and enhanced coordination among various government agencies, the private sector, and civil society organizations.

The Omani Minister of Social Development affirmed the Sultanate of Oman's full commitment to the principles of the Copenhagen Declaration and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

She emphasized that Oman is moving confidently towards building a cohesive society, an inclusive economy, and a citizenry that actively participates in shaping and developing the future. (QNA)