Manama: Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs, commended the achievements of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) over the past forty-four years, describing it as a distinguished model of deep-rooted cooperation, enduring partnership, and strategic integration rooted in common faith, kinship, language, purpose, and destiny. He emphasised the GCC's role in promoting security, peace, and prosperity across the region and globally.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Minister congratulated His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the leaders of the GCC member states on the occasion of the Council's 44th anniversary. He highlighted the Council's significant milestones in enhancing regional integration through a cohesive security and defence framework, strategic diplomatic positions, and sustainable development and economic initiatives.
Dr. Al Zayani expressed Bahrain's pride in the progress achieved under the leadership of His Majesty the King and the continued guidance and support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. He underscored the importance of the GCC as a model of Arab cooperation, regional engagement, and international partnership that contributes to regional stability and the advancement of sustainable development goals.
The Minister also commended the collective diplomatic approach of the GCC leaders in prioritising dialogue and peaceful resolution of regional and international conflicts. He highlighted the initiative of His Majesty the King in calling for an international conference to establish a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in the Middle East through the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. He also commended the efforts of the international coalition, led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to implement the two-state solution, and the joint efforts in cooperation with countries to ensure the security of maritime navigation, energy supplies, and global trade, while countering external interference and combating terrorism and extremism.
The Minister expressed his appreciation to Jassim Mohammed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the GCC, along with all members and staff of the General Secretariat and its associated bodies, for their efforts in advancing the implementation of summit and ministerial outcomes, thereby strengthening cooperation across political, economic, and social spheres.
Dr. Al Zayani underscored the Kingdom of Bahrain's commitment, under the leadership of His Majesty the King and with the support of HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to advancing integration and unity among GCC states. He emphasised Bahrain's determination to pursue the vision of the founding leaders and fulfil the aspirations of GCC citizens for continued development and prosperity, while jointly addressing regional and global challenges through a unified and responsible approach.