Foreign Minister takes part in GCC Foreign Ministers' meeting with US counterpart

Riyadh, Jan. 23 (BNA): The Minister of Foreign Affairs Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa took part in the meeting of the foreign ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council with the US Secretary of State John Kerry that was held today in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The meeting reviewed close ties between the GCC States and the United States and ways to further boost them in all areas. They also discussed the latest developments in the region, including issues related to Syria, Yemen, counterterrorism and the relation of the regional states with Iran. The Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated that the meeting is a continuation of the ongoing communication of the two sides in the framework of the existing partnership between them and their keenness to further enhance joint cooperation and coordination mechanisms on regional and international issues as well as boost efforts in addressing regional challenges, particularly all forms of terrorism, and promoting peace and security in the region. Shaikh Khalid hailed the crucial role played by the US in safeguarding the international peace and security and its keenness on consultation and cooperation with the regional states. At the press conference after the conclusion of the meeting, the US Secretary of State John Kerry stressed the importance of partnership between the GCC countries and the US, pointing out his country’s support to the Islamic counterterrorism alliance. He also expressed his grave concern over continuous support of terrorist groups such as Hezbollah. (MOFA)