HM King chairs opening session of 46th GCC Summit in Bahrain
Manama, Dec. 3 (BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa chaired the opening session of the 46th session of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Supreme Council, held at Sakhir Palace.
The session convened in the presence of Their Majesties and Highnesses, leaders and representatives of GCC states, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and Jasem Mohamed Al Budaiwi, Secretary General of the GCC.
The opening session began with a recitation from the Holy Quran.
His Majesty the King then delivered an address:
In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful,
Your Majesties and Highnesses,
Distinguished guests,
May the peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you,
It is a pleasure to warmly welcome you among your family and brethren in the Kingdom of Bahrain, and to express deep pride in hosting this auspicious summit, through which we reaffirm our commitment to continuing the successful course of joint Gulf action, that draws strength from the bonds of fraternity and kinship, and is reinforced by the unity of purpose and destiny.
It is also a pleasure to extend sincere thanks and appreciation to our dear brother, His Highness Sheikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah, Amir of the State of Kuwait, for his wise leadership of the previous session, which have yielded positive outcomes that contributed to serving the higher interests of the GCC and fulfilling the aspirations of its peoples.
Your Majesties and Highnesses, as we reflect on the journey of this proud Gulf institution, established by the founding fathers with dedication and affection, we find a clear confirmation of the soundness of its approach towards greater integration, that is aligned with its strategic importance and unity, and which demonstrates its status as an active and influential effective force in regional and international politics, as stipulated in the charter of this Council.
Practical experience has proven the truth of this reality. We have been able, with the Grace of Allah and through the dedicated work of the Council, to build a comprehensive development model that combines global competitiveness with security the highest levels of stability and prosperity.
It would not have been possible to deliver those achievements without the shared vision and unified policies that prioritised the consolidation of Gulf security, the protection of national sovereignty, respect for the principles of good neighbourliness, and non-interference in the internal affairs of states – all ground in the golden rule that the security, stability, and prosperity of GCC states are inseparable.
On this occasion, we take pride in the progress made across areas of joint cooperation, particularly those associated with Gulf citizenship and economic unity. We look forward to completing the GCC customs union and the GCC common market, and to expanding our partnerships in food and water security, the digital economy, renewable energy, and other vital sectors.
Your Majesties and Highnesses,
In light of the rapid developments witnessed by our region, it is increasingly important that we maintain our collective efforts with determination, wisdom, and openness to address regional issues – foremost among of which is the Palestinian cause. This is to be achieved through dialogue and political and diplomatic options which strengthen stability, and which open firm prospects for the region’s security and sustainable development.
We emphasise the importance of completing the implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan, which represents a positive step towards de-escalation and creating conditions necessary to acclerate the path towards a just and lasting peace- one that ensures the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with international legitimacy and the Arab Peace Initiative.
Regarding the security of the Arabian Gulf and regional stability, we deem it neccessary to protect maritime navigation and international trade from any threat, and to maintain a region free of weapons of mass destruction. This is based on the GCC’s strategic approach to collective security and defence, and on cooperation with its network of alliances, in pursuit of consolidating the values of human fraternity and peaceful coexistence, thereby reinforcing a culture of peace and mutual respect among peoples.
In conclusion, let us ensure that this Council stands as a renewed pledge, to achieve a free and fair Gulf market; a soft power capable of safeguarding our identity, the unity of our societies, and a future where development is built upon knowledge, innovation, and dignity. We pray to Allah the Almighty to grant us all success in achieving all that elevates our nations and serves the welfare of our peoples, in a world of greater justice, stability, and prosperity.
Thank you, and may the peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you.
Following His Majesty’s address, His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, Amir of the State of Kuwait and President of the 45th GCC Summit, delivered an address.
Jasem Mohamed Al Budaiwi, GCC Secretary General, then delivered an address.
The Secretary General then announced the adjournment of the opening session.
His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa then chaired the closed working session of the 46th GCC Summit.
