Local newspapers opinion pieces emphasise the Kingdom of Bahrain's approach of consolidating Gulf solidarity
Manama, Dec. 3 (BNA): Local newspaper editorials and several opinion pieces highlighted the significance of the 46th Gulf Cooperation Council Summit for His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and Their Highnesses, the leaders of the GCC states, hosted by the Kingdom and led by His Majesty the King, in advancing the course of joint Gulf action, continuing efforts for a brighter future for the Gulf states and peoples, and developing mechanisms of Gulf cooperation in line with current challenges.
Al Bilad newspaper said in its editorial entitled "Summit to strengthen stability and prosperity" that the 46th GCC Summit, led by His Majesty the King, consolidates the Kingdom’s position in supporting Gulf solidarity and integration as a strategic choice for the present and future of the Gulf states and peoples.
It noted that the Kingdom assumes the presidency of the new session with a leading role in joint Gulf action, having developed expertise in dialogue over decades and, due to its location and role, the ability to bridge differences within the framework of a shared destiny. This role is evident today with a summit taking place amid rapid security and economic changes, making Manama a hub for a new vision supporting Gulf integration.
The piece said that the "Bahrain Summit" convenes at an important regional moment, as Gulf states move to reframe regional security balances and design a new approach linking deterrence and diplomacy, alongside the economy and maritime routes that form the arteries of global trade. It considered that the summit’s importance lies in its continuity in achieving practical and effective projects that directly serve the Gulf citizen. Sustaining joint Gulf action has become an urgent necessity to ensure economic and food security, deepen integration in infrastructure and logistics, and enhance the capacity of Gulf institutions in each state to confront accelerating challenges in energy, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. The outcomes of the summit also provide a framework that impacts quality of life, employment opportunities, and the development of vital sectors in the region, enhancing stability and prosperity and realising the aspirations of future generations.
The newspaper considered that the "Bahrain Summit" represents a continuing effort to shape a better future for the Gulf states and their peoples, noting that the Kingdom, as a leader of this session, is aware of the scale of challenges and transformation opportunities. This makes Manama a platform to launch a new phase that is stronger, more cohesive, and more influential on regional and global affairs.
On his part, Anwar Abdulrahman, Editor-in-Chief of Akhbar Al Khaleej, wrote in his editorial entitled "Bahrain Summit and the shared destiny" that throughout the history of the GCC, from its inception to the present, the Kingdom has always been a key supporter of the Council’s journey and at the forefront of calls to develop joint Gulf action and elevate it to the highest levels.
He added that His Majesty the King has always emphasised the importance of Gulf unity and the development of joint Gulf action to meet the hopes of the peoples. He noted that His Majesty consistentlt uses the expression ‘shared destiny’, which summarises what brings GCC states and peoples together and outlines the path the Council must follow.
The Editor-in-Chief of Akhbar Al Khaleej emphasised that it is hoped that the ‘Bahrain Summit’ will further transofrm the expression ‘shared destiny’ into a tangible reality. This would make the summit a historic turning point in joint Gulf action, advancing it to a new stage, and that the summit would adopt decisions representing a step forward towards unifying the Arab Gulf in all fields, that is, towards the aspired Arab Gulf Union."
Under the title "Bahrain Summit and strategic Gulf integration", Rashid Nabil Al Hamar, Editor-in-Chief of Al Ayam newspaper, said that Bahrain today proudly welcomes His Majesty and Their Highnesses, the leaders of the GCC states, as honoured guests of His Majesty the King.
He said it is a historic moment in which the Gulf collaboration spirit is underscored in extension of the journey spanning more than four decades. Bahrain’s hosting of this summit, and its leading role with its renowned balance, reflects the trust of its leaders in the approach of His Majesty the King and His Majesty’s ability to unite opinions and address Gulf and Arab issues.
He noted that the summit comes at a highly precise regional and international moment, where changes accelerate and challenges facing the region increase. However, these critical moments give the Gulf states a valuable opportunity to reinforce their shared principles, strengthen unity, and launch a new phase that goes beyond conventional cooperation towards comprehensive strategic integration that safeguards the region, enhances its standing, and ensures a secure and prosperous future for its peoples.
Al Hamar added that in a rapidly transforming world, there is a pressing need to update the joint Gulf vision and reorder priorities in line with major transformations, as new issues are no longer luxuries but strategic necessities: Food security, artificial intelligence, the digital economy, renewable energy, youth empowerment, and the future of jobs amid technological change.
Faisal Al Shaikh, in an article published by Al Watan newspaper under the title "Bahrain Summit; a summit of decisive moments", said that Bahrain’s presidency of the Gulf summit today gains a special importance due to the Bahraini leadership’s distinguished model in political wisdom and commitment to collective action.
He said: "His Majesty the King is known for his continuous support of peace and dialogue and his efforts to consolidate Gulf unity as a foundation for regional stability. It is expected that his speech at the opening session will convey key messages expressing the member states’ aspirations for closer integration and reflect Bahrain’s commitment to its active role in supporting joint Gulf action."
He said that the Bahraini rhetoric always represents an open invitation to strengthen communication with various regional and international parties, based on values of tolerance and understanding, and emphasises that the Arab Gulf is qualified to be a platform for continuous global dialogue. Bahrain’s diplomacy approach has reinforced its position as an effective, respected actor on the international stage, continually working to promote regional stability through dialogue and openness."
He considered that holding the summit in Bahrain carries important significance confirming the unity of destiny and aspirations among the Council’s states, stating: "The Gulf citizen, who remains at the centre of all policies, looks forward to outcomes that make a tangible difference in the level of cooperation and open new horizons towards a more prosperous and secure future."
