Riyadh: Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), participated in a significant workshop titled "Strengthening the Strategic Partnership between the GCC Countries and Central Asian Countries: From Historical Ties to Comprehensive Cooperation." The event, held in Riyadh, was organized by the Gulf Research Centre in collaboration with the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies at the Office of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the workshop saw the presence of Dr. Abdulaziz bin Sager, President of the Gulf Research Centre, Dr. Eldor Aripov, Director of the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies at the Office of the President of Uzbekistan, and several ambassadors from Central Asian countries accredited to Riyadh. Albudaiwi emphasized that the relationship between the GCC and Central Asian countries rests on a foundation of shared history and mutual interests. He expressed optimism about the future of this partnership, highlighting its potential for development and prosperity.
The GCC Secretary General expressed his gratitude to the President of the Gulf Research Centre for organizing the workshop, which served as a platform to explore ways to enhance strategic relations and cooperation between the GCC and Central Asian countries. He acknowledged the efforts of researchers and experts from Central Asia, noting the historical, cultural, and religious ties that underpin these relationships. Albudaiwi pointed out that Central Asian countries, rich in natural resources like oil, natural gas, rare minerals, and agricultural assets, are critical economic partners for the GCC, which is keen on diversifying its economic engagements and boosting foreign investments.
Albudaiwi highlighted the shared security challenges faced by the GCC and Central Asian countries, such as combating terrorism and extremism, which provide opportunities for enhanced cooperation in security and information exchange. He also underscored the importance of economic integration between the GCC, Central Asian states, and Azerbaijan, citing the GCC's impressive GDP and trade statistics as indicators of strong economic potential.
Trade between the GCC and Central Asia, he noted, holds significant promise but remains underutilized. Despite a merchandise trade volume of approximately USD 10 billion in 2023, this only represents a fraction of the GCC's total trade. Albudaiwi called for expanding investment channels and building robust commercial links to foster sustainable development across both regions.
Addressing security issues, Albudaiwi mentioned the recent missile and drone attacks on GCC countries, which have targeted critical civilian infrastructure. He highlighted the UN Security Council's condemnation of these attacks and emphasized the need for international support to uphold peace and security. The crisis has affected navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global energy supplies and economies, including those of Central Asian countries.
In conclusion, Albudaiwi reiterated the GCC's commitment to self-defense and regional stability, urging international cooperation to uphold international law and ensure energy supply stability for the benefit of all.