Saudi Gazette report
MANAMA — Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa chaired the opening session of the 46th Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Supreme Council summit at Sakhir Palace in Manama.
In his speech, the King emphasized that the security and prosperity of the GCC countries are indivisible. “The shared vision has made establishing Gulf security and respecting the principles of good neighborliness and non-interference in the internal affairs of states a top priority,” he said.
King Hamad commended the achievements made in the areas of joint cooperation, particularly those related to Gulf citizenship and economic unity, and expressed his hope for the completion of the Customs Union and the Gulf Common Market projects, as well as expanding partnerships in the digital economy, renewable energy, and other vital sectors.
The King underlined the need for collective efforts with determination, wisdom, and openness to address regional issues – foremost among of which is the Palestinian cause. “This is to be achieved through dialogue and political and diplomatic options which strengthen stability, and which open firm prospects for the region’s security and sustainable development. We emphasize the importance of completing the implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan, which represents a positive step towards de-escalation and creating conditions necessary to accelerate the path towards a just and lasting peace- one that ensures the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with international legitimacy and the Arab Peace Initiative,” he said.
“Regarding the security of the Arabian Gulf and regional stability, we deem it necessary to protect maritime navigation and international trade from any threat, and to maintain a region free of weapons of mass destruction.This is based on the GCC’s strategic approach to collective security and defense, and on cooperation with its network of alliances, in pursuit of consolidating the values of human fraternity and peaceful coexistence, thereby reinforcing a culture of peace and mutual respect among peoples,” he said.
King Hamad underscored the need to work for achieving a free and fair Gulf market; a soft power capable of safeguarding Gulf identity, the unity of societies, and a future where development is built upon knowledge, innovation, and dignity.
Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the chair of the previous session of the GCC Supreme Council, and GCC Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi also addressed the opening session. The Emir of Kuwait stated in his address that "any aggression against a member state of this council is considered a direct aggression against all its members." Albudaiwi announced the establishment of a Gulf Civil Aviation Authority and the launch of the Gulf Industrial Platform.
The Gulf leaders are discussing issues related to current regional and international developments, in addition to enhancing joint Gulf action and partnerships with countries and international blocs. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is attending the summit.
