Saudi Arabia participates in preparations for the 46th Gulf Cooperation Council summit in Manama
On behalf of His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the delegation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was headed by the Undersecretary for Multilateral International Affairs and General Supervisor of the Ministry's Agency for Public Diplomacy, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Rassi, at the 166th session of the Ministerial Council, preparatory to the 46th session of the Supreme Council of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf. These important meetings, which lay the groundwork for the upcoming summit of the GCC leaders, were hosted by the Bahraini capital, Manama.
Meeting agenda and the progress of Gulf cooperation
The meeting included a comprehensive review of the progress of joint Gulf cooperation, with ministers and officials discussing ways to strengthen and develop this cooperation to serve the interests of the region's people. Discussions focused on a number of vital reports related to monitoring the implementation of the Supreme Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council's (GCC) decisions issued at the previous (45th) summit, to ensure the continuity of agreed-upon projects and initiatives, and to ensure thorough preparations for the (46th) GCC summit scheduled to be held in Manama.
The importance of coordination in light of regional challenges
This preparatory meeting is of paramount strategic importance given the critical juncture the region is currently experiencing. Amidst rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape and the prevailing regional and international conditions, the role of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) stands out as a cornerstone of stability and security in the Middle East. These ministerial meetings serve to unify visions and political stances on pressing issues, thereby strengthening the GCC's influence in international forums and ensuring a unified and impactful voice in addressing challenges.
Strengthening economic and security integration
In addition to the political aspect, the preparatory meetings are paying close attention to economic and security integration among the six GCC states. This stems from the Council's historical vision of achieving advanced stages of economic unity and a common Gulf market. These issues are an integral part of the agenda for the upcoming summit, where leaders seek to enhance the economic well-being of Gulf citizens and diversify sources of income, in line with the national development visions of each member state.
The Saudi delegation participating
The Saudi representation at the meeting reflected the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to supporting the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). In addition to Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Rassi, the meeting was attended by the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Nayef Al-Sudairi, the Director General of the Office of the Undersecretary for Multilateral International Affairs, Mohammed Al-Shehri, and the Director of the GCC Department, Faisal bin Saeed, underscoring the Kingdom's dedication to advancing joint action towards broader horizons.
