'Riyadh Summit outcomes to enhance joint GCC action'

Manama, Dec. 13 (BNA): His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa has praises the 36th session of the GCC Supreme Council Summit, held recently in Riyadh. "The outcomes of the GCC Summit, and the creative initiatives launched by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and GCC leaders will open up new horizons of joint GCC action and make it more capable of facing challenges," he said. HRH Premier made the statements as he received at the Gudaibiya Palace today the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, who briefed him about the resolutions issued by GCC leaders to enhance GCC cooperation in the political, economic, security and military fields. The Prime Minister congratulated Dr. Al-Zayani on being re-appointed by GCC leaders for a new three-year term, wishing him every success in developing joint GCC action. HRH Premier underscored the importance of initiatives aiming to strengthen the GCC and transfer it to an entity with unified stances in order to meet the GCC peoples' aspirations in this regard, describing the GCC as a "safety valve" to ensure security and stability, face challenges and preserve the landmark gains and achievements attained by the member states in various fields. HRH the Prime Minister affirmed that the GCC has managed to create a solid foundation of relations among its member states and set an effective model of partnership and cooperation in the security, economic and security fields, stressing that the bloc has proved its ability to withstand challenges thanks to its leaders' shared desire to preserve it as an all-inclusive framework for their countries' joint action. "The rapidly unfolding developments in the region require us to be more prepared to deal with any emerging situations, fortify our countries against those seeking to drag them to the abyss of conflicts and destruction and focus our efforts on development through which we fulfill the needs of our peoples for a decent, secure and stable life," he said. HRH Premier stressed that GCC countries should step up cooperation among them, especially regarding security, and be more aware and prepared to deal with any potential emergencies or attempts to under their stability. GCC secretary-general expressed sincere thanks and appreciation to HRH the Prime Minister for his supportive stances towards enhancing joint GCC action, lauding his wise visions and in-depth analyses of the current developments, as well as stances on enhancing cohesion among GCC countries and peoples, being bound by common destiny and shared goals. He asserted that HRH Premier's remarkable stances towards cooperation among GCC countries reflect his statesmanship, far-sightedness and outstanding ability to analyse reality and come up with comprehensive vision to boost GCC cooperation and strengthen its vital role as a solid regional bloc in various fields.