46th Gulf Summit: Al-Badawi praises Saudi Arabia's role in the two-state solution
The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jassem Mohammed Al-Budaiwi, expressed his deep gratitude and appreciation to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, praising its pivotal and leading role in mobilizing international efforts to implement the two-state solution. This came in his opening address during the 46th session of the Supreme Council of the GCC (the 46th GCC Summit), which commenced today in the Bahraini capital, Manama, with the participation of the leaders of the GCC member states.
The centrality of the Palestinian issue and the Saudi role
In his address, Al-Badawi affirmed that the Palestinian cause remains the primary and central issue for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, emphasizing the necessity of ending the Israeli occupation as a fundamental condition for achieving stability in the region. The expression of gratitude to Saudi Arabia comes within the context of the intensive diplomatic efforts recently spearheaded by Riyadh, including the launch of the "International Coalition for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution" and the hosting of Arab and Islamic summits aimed at unifying ranks against the aggression on Gaza. This Saudi role reflects a long-standing and unwavering commitment to supporting Palestinian rights and underscores the Kingdom's political weight and influence in international forums in the pursuit of a just and comprehensive peace.
Welcoming efforts to de-escalate tensions and end the war
In a related development concerning the situation in the Gaza Strip, the Secretary-General welcomed the agreement reached with the active participation of the State of Qatar, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Republic of Turkey, and the United States of America, which aims to end the ongoing war in Gaza. He noted that these steps represent a glimmer of hope for ending the escalating humanitarian suffering, and affirmed the Gulf Cooperation Council's support for all initiatives that lead to de-escalation and the protection of civilians.
Regional challenges and the joint defense file
The 46th Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit is being held at Sakhir Palace in the Kingdom of Bahrain at a highly sensitive time, as the region faces complex geopolitical circumstances and unprecedented security challenges. In this context, the issue of "joint Gulf defense" is receiving exceptional attention from the leaders, as it is considered a fundamental pillar for maintaining the security of the GCC states and protecting their developmental achievements. Strengthening military and security cooperation among the GCC states is no longer an option but an urgent necessity to confront surrounding threats and unify visions and positions regarding rapidly evolving international developments.
Towards a new phase of Gulf integration
This summit represents a pivotal moment in the journey of joint Gulf action, as leaders look to forge a new phase of economic, political, and security integration. The Gulf consensus that emerged so clearly in Manama sends reassuring messages to the Gulf peoples and affirms the Council's ability to overcome crises and act as a unified and influential bloc in the international system, building upon a long legacy of cooperation and shared destiny.
