Outcomes of the 46th Bahrain Summit and the Sakhir Declaration 2025
In an exceptional event embodying the depth of fraternal ties and shared destiny, the 46th session of the Supreme Council of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (the Bahrain Summit) concluded in the Bahraini capital, Manama. The summit, chaired by King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and attended by the leaders of the member states, produced a set of important political decisions and messages embodied in the "Sakhir Declaration.".
Historical context and extended journey
This summit comes as a continuation of a rich history of joint Gulf action that began with the establishment of the Council in the early 1980s. For more than four decades, the Gulf Cooperation Council has served as a strategic umbrella for protecting the region's security and enhancing the well-being of its people. The 46th session is of particular importance given the sensitive timeframe currently facing the Middle East and the world, which necessitates strengthening Gulf unity and unifying visions regarding the rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
Sakhir Declaration 2025: A Vision for the Future
During the joint press conference held by Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani and GCC Secretary General Jassim Mohammed Al Badawi, the "Sakhir Declaration for the Bahrain Summit 2025" was highlighted. This declaration conveys a message of steadfastness and commitment to strengthening historical ties, focusing on key areas including:
- Economic integration: pushing for more joint projects that serve the Gulf citizen.
- Security and stability: Emphasizing that the security of the GCC countries is indivisible.
- Social empowerment: Strengthening the role of youth and women in sustainable development.
International dimensions and strategic partnerships
The summit had a prominent international dimension with the participation of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni as a guest of honor, reflecting the strategic importance that the European Union and Mediterranean countries attach to their partnership with the Gulf States. Discussions focused on the joint action plan for the period 2026-2030, opening broader horizons for economic and political cooperation between the two sides.
A unified stance on regional issues
The Palestinian issue and the war in Gaza topped the summit's agenda, with leaders commending diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. According to the summit's conclusions, the Security Council resolution endorsing peace plans aimed at a permanent ceasefire was welcomed, while reaffirming the Palestinian people's right to self-determination. The leaders also addressed the Russian-Ukrainian crisis, praising international efforts to end the conflict and facilitate humanitarian access and prisoner exchanges.
Riyadh takes over the flag
At the conclusion of the summit, attention turns to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which will assume the presidency of the 47th session. The Supreme Council welcomed the Kingdom's invitation to host the upcoming summit, reaffirming Saudi Arabia's leading role in guiding joint Gulf action towards further achievements, particularly in light of the ambitious visions unfolding in the region.
