The 46th Bahrain Summit: Historic decisions to support Gulf unity and Sudan
The 46th session of the Supreme Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) concluded in Manama, the capital of Bahrain, amidst a positive atmosphere and a consensus on strengthening joint Gulf action. This summit, held at a critical regional and international juncture, underscored the pivotal role of the Gulf states in shaping the region's future and maintaining its stability.
Implementing the vision of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques
The summit's agenda was dominated by a firm emphasis on the full, precise, and continuous implementation of the vision of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, which was adopted by the Council in 2015. This vision serves as a strategic roadmap aimed at transforming the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) from a phase of cooperation to one of union, and enhancing integration across defense, security, and economic systems. This emphasis reflects the leaders' understanding of the importance of the Gulf bloc as a bulwark against the growing challenges facing the international arena.
Historical context and importance of the summit
The Bahrain summit is of particular importance as it builds upon a long history of cooperation that began with the Council's founding in 1981. For over four decades, the Council has successfully solidified the concept of "collective security," with the final communiqué reaffirming that the security of its member states is indivisible and that any attack on one is an attack on all. This firmly established principle is a cornerstone of regional stability, especially given the geopolitical tensions surrounding the Arabian Gulf region.
Praise for the Crown Prince's efforts in the Sudanese file
In the context of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's active diplomatic role, the Supreme Council commended the efforts of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, aimed at supporting peace in Sudan. The statement praised His Highness's diplomatic initiatives, including his visit to Washington, and his joint work with the United States and regional partners to halt the war and end the ongoing conflict, reflecting the Kingdom's political weight and its ability to influence complex issues in a way that serves Arab national security.
A firm stance on regional issues
The final statement addressed the situation in the Gaza Strip at length, affirming the GCC states' unwavering support for the Palestinian people. The leaders called for an immediate ceasefire, the lifting of the blockade, and the implementation of the two-state solution in accordance with international law. The statement also touched upon economic matters, adopting practical steps toward economic integration, including the activation of the customs data exchange platform and the Gulf Railway project—vital projects that will contribute to strengthening social and economic ties among the peoples of the region.
In conclusion, the outcomes of the Bahrain Summit reflected a strong political will to move forward with integration projects and to confront challenges in a unified manner, with a focus on sustainable development and economic prosperity as a top priority for the next stage.
