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GCC events, activities for 2011

 KUWAIT, Dec 27 (KUNA) -- The Arab Gulf region witnessed major events at various levels. The Arab and Muslim nations were deeply distressed with demise, on October 22, of Prince Sultan Bin Abdul Aziz, who was the Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He was succeeded by Prince Naif Bin Abdul Aziz.
Winds of change, blown by the "Arab Spring" events, reached the Gulf region, where GCC states proposed an initiative, with international backing, to establish a consensus government comprising various forces from across the political spectrum. Meanwhile, in Bahrain, the national conciliation dialogue was launched, affirming the democratic approach, adopted by the sagacious government.
These winds spilled over to Oman where Sultan Qaboos decreed election of chairman of the Consultative Council -- instead of being appointed. The Sultanate also witnessed other measures for administrative reforms.
In Iraq, the natives became totally in charge of their homeland, following withdrawal of the American forces that had spearheaded an allied military campaign that ousted the former Baath regime of the executed dictator, Saddam Hussein.
Prosperity was visible at various levels in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar. The latter declared planned establishment of the first Shura (consultative) Council by 2013.
As to Iran, it proceeded with its nuclear program, despite mounting international curbs, repeatedly defied will of the super powers through flagrant breach of diplomatic norms.
In the meantime, the GCC member states celebrated the 30th anniversary of founding the council, and Dr. Abdul-Latif Al-Zayani, of Bahrain, took office as the GCC Secretary General.
The GCC made several achievements, namely persuading Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh to sign the Gulf initiative to resolve the Yemeni crisis. The council support for Bahrain at the political, economic and military levels depicted solidarity and unity of the member states. Meanwhile, the GCC welcomed requests by Jordan and Morocco to join the bloc.
On May 24, The GCC Secretariat-General celebrated the 30th anniversary of establishing the council, under sponsorship of Riyadh region Amir, Prince Salman Bin Abdul-Aziz, and the Secretariat flag was hoisted on the occasion.
Meetings of GCC leaders: On May 10, GCC leaders held the 13th consultative summit in Riyadh and welcomed request by Jordan and Morocco to join the council.
On June 9, The GCC states declared regulations for the labor market during the 28th session of the Labor Council during the annual conference of the International Labor Organization.
On July 11, The GCC Secretariat-General denied delaying full implementation of terms of the custom union or existence of hurdles obstructing facing completion of the custom federation.
On December 19, top leaders of the GCC countries held the 32nd session of the Supreme Council of the GCC in Riyadh. They welcomed a proposal made by King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia of establishing "a single entity" among the regional states.
Moreover, they discussed various political issues, agreed on examining arenas of cooperation with Jordan and Morocco and decided to establish a Gulf fund for development.
At the economic level, the GCC leaders examined achievements that had been made for greater cooperation and integration.
They also approved a plan for combating epidemics, adopted joint health standards and backed Qatar's hosting of the 2020 Olympic games.
Furthermore, the leaders agreed on employing retirees, backed all efforts against terrorism, implementing agreements for aiding Gaza, expressed alarm at Iranian intervention in internal affairs of the council states, Iran's nuclear efforts and condemned Israel's plans to build settlements in Jerusalem.
On Syria, they called on the Damascus government implement the Arab protocol of cooperation and backed Kuwait's Mubarak Al-Kabeer port project. As to Yemen, they praised the warring parties' signing of the Gulf initiative and welcomed formation of an interim government in Libya.
GCC Foreign ministers' meetings: KUWAIT -- On January 12, GCC foreign ministers held a consultative meeting with US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on sidelines of the Future Forum, that was hosted by Doha, addressing means of cooperation with the United States. The conferees expressed alarm at turbulent conditions in Lebanon.
On January 12, The GCC ministers during their consultative meeting Doha expressed alarm at the deteriorating conditions in Lebanon, in shadow of collapse of the government of Saad Al-Hariri.
On February 17, The GCC ministerial council held its 30th extraordinary session in the Bahraini capital, Manama, affirming solidarity in face of any threat targeting any of the council member states. The ministers re-affirmed backing for Bahrain and rejected any external intervention in its domestic affairs.
On March 7, The GCC foreign ministers held their 118th session in Abu Dhabi. The meeting was followed up in Riyadh on March 10, under chairmanship of UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al-Nuhayyan. The ministers issued several resolutions regarding various issues, such as establishing the Gulf Development Program and allocation of USD 20 billion for supporting development in Bahrain and Oman, for a period of time extending for 10 years.
On April 3, The GCC ministerial council held its 31st extraordinary session at headquarters of the GCC Secretariat-General. The council condemned Iran's intervention in domestic affairs of Kuwait and Bahrain, Iranian "hostile rhetoric" against Saudi Arabia. As to Yemen, they agreed on holding contacts with the government and the opposition in a bid to settle the crisis.
On April 10, The GCC ministerial council held its 32nd special session in Riyadh, calling on the Yemeni government and opposition to holding conciliation dialogue under auspices of the GCC. The dialogue aimed at restoring stability in Yemen, meeting people's aspiration for reforms, ensuring peaceful shift of powers and compelling the warring parties to cease violence and all forms of vengeance.
According to the GCC initiative, President Ali Abdullah Saleh should shift powers to his deputy, a national government be formed for managing the nation, enacting a new constitution and holding elections.
On May 1, The GCC ministerial council declared, at end of the 35th extraordinary session, held in Riyadh, that the GCC chief would travel to Sanaa to pursue contacts with the Yemeni parties in a new bid to reach a settlement to the crisis.
On May 22, The GCC ministers, at their 63rd session, declared suspension of the Gulf initiative for Yemen "for lack of adequate conditions to sign it," and re-affirmed support for the Yemeni people.
On June 14, The ministerial council, at its 119th session held in Jeddah, hailed Bahrain's decision to lift "the state of national safety" and call for comprehensive and unconditional national dialogue. The ministers also affirmed the GCC commitment to bolstering the state security and sovereignty.

-- The ministers discussed achievements of the council committees in the political, economic and legal sectors, and approved formation of a committee for contestation at the affiliate invention patents bureau. Moreover, the council named Abdul-Aziz Bin Ahmad Al-Ghanem as assistant secretary general for administrative and financial affairs, Abdul-Hamid Bin Mohammad Abdul-Ghani as assistant secretary general for information affairs. The ministers also approved establishing the port of the assistant secretary general for negotiations and strategic dialogue.
Furthermore, The council called for establishing an international center for combating terrorism, exchanging information and expertise in the fight against this peril.
On September 11, The council, at conclusion of the 120th session, held in Jeddah, affirmed unwavering support for Iraq, respecting its territorial sanctity and re-affirmed deep concern at deterioration of conditions in Yemen, expressing support for all efforts aimed at halting the blood-shedding in this Gulf nation. Moreover, the council re-affirmed support for stability and security of Bahrain, backing for measures declared by King Hamad Bin Issa Al-Khalifa to restore security and stability to the country.
Furthermore, the council backed efforts exerted by Bahrain to host the first GCC Olympic games and expressed appreciation of Qatar's efforts to host the Arab sports tournament. It also approved formation of a permanent commission for meteorology and weather.
As to Iran, he council stressed on abidance by the principles of the international legitimacy and resolving conflicts with peaceful means. As to the nuclear file, they stressed on the necessity of abidance by these principles and resolving the issue peacefully.
The council called for implementing the Palestinian-Palestinian conciliation agreement, speeding up formation of a national Palestinian government and taking a firm stance to compel Israel respect international laws.
The GCC ministers affirmed support for Kuwait regarding establishment of Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port, emphasized that Iraq must finalize resolving the question of maintaining the border signs, determine destiny of missing Kuwaitis and prisoners and repatriating Kuwait's stolen properties.
As to Syria, the council called for immediate cessation of deadly violence, resorting to wisdom and implementing various terms of the Arab initiative, adopted by the Arab League Council at its extraordinary session, held on August 28.
On Somalia, the council called for international efforts to relieve victims of the strife. The GCC ministers, meanwhile, held a meeting with foreign ministers of Jordan and Morocco, forming two action groups.
On September 23, The council held its 37th extraordinary session in New York, expressing deep distress at death of civilians in Yemen and condemning deployment of heavy-caliber arms in quelling protests. The ministers affirmed keenness on aiding the Yemenis to reach a consensus for immediate implementation of the Gulf initiative, urging the president to sign it and relinquish powers peacefully.
On October 13, The GCC ministerial council issues a statement, essentially saying that, with consideration to the continuing deteriorating conditions in Syria, the GCC states called for an immediate meeting of the foreign ministers of the Arab League states to tackle humanitarian conditions in Syria, work out plans for halting the bloodletting and ceasing the violence.
On November 23, The GCC ministers, at end of the 121st session, declared utter and unwavering support for the Kingdom of Bahrain for sake of ensuring its security, stability and realizing aspirations of its people. The council praised a speech by the King, Hamad Bin Issa Al-Khalifa, marking his reception of the final report prepared by the independent panel tasked with investigating the local events.
On the other hand, the council decided to submit a recommendation to the GCC Supreme Council, during its upcoming 33rd session, due in Saudi Arabia, to adopt a five-year economic development scheme to fund ventures in Jordan and Morocco.
On December 18, The GCC foreign ministers concluded their preparatory meeting for the 32nd GCC summit due in Riyadh. The ministers discussed various scheduled topics of political, security, military, humanitarian and environmental nature. They also tackled the strategic cooperation with Morocco and Jordan, within framework of joint commission.
GCC meetings: On March 8, The first ministerial meeting, within the framework of strategic dialogue between the GCC and Pakistan, was held in Abu Dhabi. The two sides expressed aspiration to establish "comprehensive partnership that may realize aspirations of their peoples." On April 4, A meeting comprising representatives of member states of the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council was held, assessing the joint action plan, signed in 2010, and preparing for the ministerial meeting of the European and Gulf groups on April 20.
On April 20, The 21st GCC-EU session was held in Abu Dhabi, discussing bilateral relations. The two sides affirmed keenness on sovereignty of the GCC states and their right to protect their citizens. The meeting also discussed regional issues, the Iranian nuclear file, piracy and the question of weapons of mass-destruction.
The first ministerial meeting for strategic dialogue between the foreign ministers of the GCC states and Russia was held in Abu Dhabi on November 1. The two sides signed a memorandum of understanding regulating mechanisms of strategic dialogue, agreeing on holding annual meetings by the foreign ministers of the GCC countries and their Russian counterpart on regional and international issues. They affirmed adherence to bolstering the world order, based on pluralism of powers and adherence to UN covenants. Moreover, they emphasized that relations among states of the region must be based on good neighborliness relations, respect of states' sovereignty, vowed to boost commercial and investment cooperation as well as the coordination at the levels of higher education and sciences. The ministers tasked officials of the two countries to work out a plan for the 2013-2015 period to follow up on mutual cooperation and agreed on holding the second meeting for strategic dialogue in Russia in 2012.
Meetings of GCC ministers of interior: On May 1, The GCC interior undersecretaries welcomed restoration off calm and stability to the Kingdom of Bahrain and praised the sagacious leadership.
On May 3, The 12th meeting of the GCC interior ministers was held in Abu Dhabi, with the aim of bolstering inter-Gulf security cooperation in shadow of regional developments.
On July 4, The third meeting of the security media committee of the GCC interior ministers was held in Abu Dhabi discussing recommendations for bolstering security education among natives and residents of the council member states.

-- On December 7, The GCC interior ministers held their 30th meeting in Abu Dhabi, tentatively endorsing establishment of the Gulf police, setting up a permanent joint security commission tasked with industrial security and protection of key installations. Moreover, the ministers affirmed necessity of upgrading the GCC security treaty to address developments, stressed that security of the GCC is inseparable and that any threat to any of the member states is a threat to all the GCC countries. They praised Qatar's unlimited support for the GCC criminal data center for combating narcotics and stressed on the necessity of combating terrorism. Meetings of GCC ministers of defense: On November 22, GCC ministers of defense affirmed, at their 10th meeting, held in Abu Dhabi, necessity of establishing a joint defense network and integration of the armed forces of the member states.
Meeting of GCC ministers of health: On May 7, The GCC executive committee held the 74th regular meeting discussing electronic link-up of the council data centers, the executive bureau and the smart card.
On may 19, The GCC health ministers held their 71st meeting of their 36th session, held in Geneva on sidelines of the annual convention of the World Health Organization, the State of Kuwait document for boosting the health profession in the GCC countries. They also adopted joint prices for medicines, import price registered in Saudi Arabia or lowest prices in this regard.
Other GCC meetings: On May 7, The regular 90s meeting of the GCC Committee of Financial and Economic Cooperation was held, with the aim of boosting inter-GCC financial and economic integration.
On May 8, The 17th meeting of the team tasked with following up on preparing detailed studies on peaceful usage of nuclear energy in the GCC countries was held.
On May 115, The first coordination meeting of the heads of government authorities tasked with human rights was held in Riyadh.
On May 21, Officials of external media held their 23rd meeting in Riyadh, discussing external media issues, such as promotion of the GCC states' stances and views in powerful nations namely the US and European states.
On May 30, GCC traffic director-generals, at their 28th meeting, held in Abu Dhabi, agreed on pooling data on tickets and offenses.
On June 15, The 22nd meeting of the GCC Agricultural Committee was held in Abu Dhabi discussing issues related to food and water security.
On September 7, GCC chiefs of staff held the fourth meeting discussing plans for upgrading the Arab Peninsula Shield Force.
On September 12, The economic forum between Iraq's Kurdistan and Jordan concluded with the two sides signing many memoranda of understanding.
On September 19, Officials of the GCC news agencies, at their 14th meeting, affirmed agreed on necessity of expanding coverage of regional events, promoting further the GCC states' stances and policies.
On October 2, GCC undersecretaries of finance and economy discussed at their 36th meeting in Abu Dhabi economic issues of common interest.
On October 5, The GCC ministers of transports adopted a feasibility study fr the joint GCC railway venture.
On October 19, The GCC chiefs of staff held a meeting in Abu Dhabi, expressing satisfaction at performance of the joint Arab Peninsula Shield Force and approved establishing of a marine security coordination station in Bahrain.
On November 20, The GCC assistant secretary general for humanitarian issues, Abdullah Hashem Al-Uqlah, addressing the 11th session of the heads of social security departments, said the decision by the Supreme Council to extend insurance for the GCC citizens was welcomed by all segments of the societies of the GCC states. The meeting addressed the social security systems of military personnel and civilians.
On November 29, GCC ministers of justice discussed at their 23rd meeting, held in the UAE, a number of topics with the aim of boosting mutual cooperation among the council members in the justice and judicial sectors. They adopted a joint reference and mechanisms for the practice of law.
On October 17, The GCC committee of undersecretaries held a meeting in Abu Dhabi to discuss several crucial issues of common interest, namely the joint strategy regarding compulsory work and trade in human beings.
On December 6, The 10th meetings of heads of GCC audit bureaus was held in Abu Dhabi, tackling technical matters.
On December 10,The fifth meeting of the heads of GCC legislative assemblies was held in Jeddah. Participants in the meeting approved amendment of certain regulations, agreed to tasking the UAE Federal Nation Council with the mission of preparing a study for assessing regular meetings of the legislative assemblies, the parliamentary coordination commission and external relations. They approved charging the Bahraini Consultative Council an the parliament with presentation of a plan for coordination of the external media policies, boosting ties with civil rights organization and approving dispatch of a delegation to visit counterparts in Europe. Moreover, there was an agreement on holding a joint GCC parliament conference, on voluntary basis.
Accords: On January 8, The GCC and the Arab Administrative Development Organization (ARADO) signed a memo regulating mutual cooperation.
On January 30, The GCC states and Malaysia signed "the framework agreement for economic, commercial, investment and technical cooperation" in Abu Dhabi.
On February 1, The United States proposed endorsement of the framework agreement for commercial and investment cooperation with the GCC states.
On February 10, The foreign affairs committee of the European Parliament approved draft report for promoting cooperation between the EU and the GCC states.
On March 8, GCC foreign ministers signed, in Abu Dhabi, a MoU aimed at bolstering strategic dialogue between the GCC and Australia.
On October 6, GCC ministers of education honored, at a ceremony held in Abu Dhabi, 12 GCC citizens for distinguished literary, artistic and intellectual works.
Gulf accomplishments: On January 10, The GCC standardization committee launched the joint electronic program for cars and tires.
On January 18, Names of winners of the distinguished GCC award for health media were declared. Qatar came first, with a short story, titled, "Heroes of Immunity," followed by the UAE and Oman.
On February 22, GCC Secretary General Abdul-Rahman Al-Attiah issued a decision establishing the "training center for intellectual property of the Arab Gulf States. The Riyadh-based center was to be chaired by Saad Bin Awwad al-Thafiri

 GCC Economic ties: On February 10, A forum was held in Seoul discussing cooperation between the GCC states and South Korea.
On March 9, The GCC-Romanian economic forum was held in Bucharest, with the aim of discussing investment potentials in countries of the region and the European nation.
On November 21, Governors of GCC central banks held their 12th meeting discussing regulation of the joint monetary council.
GCC Sports achievements: On January 26, Saudi Arabia declared hosting the second GCC sports tournament, due in 2015.
On February 1, The 15th Gulf Snooker Tournament started in Dubai.
On April 22, The First Gulf Women Basketball Tournament got underway in the Qatari capital, Doha.
On May 1, The Fourth Gulf Tournament for Autistic category got underway in Jeddah, under the logo, "Our Strength Lies in Our Unity." On September 14, The 9th session of the international exhibition for hunting and equestrian got underway with participation of 596 companies from 228 states.
On October 11, The First GCC Games were launched under sponsorship, and with attendance, the King, Hamad Bin Issa Al-Khalifa. The Kingdom of Bahrain won two silver medals and three bronze ones.
On October 22, Bahrain won the gold medal in the soccer match of the games, beating Saudi Arabia.
On October 31, Chairmen of GCC soccer federations decided to hold the 21st soccer tournament of the GCC in Bahrain, instead of Iraq.
On November 3, Bahrain affirmed readiness to host the GCC tournament (Gulf 21).
On November 3, Bahrain won the European Galileo Navigation.
On November 15, The Iraqi soccer team qualified for the Asia qualifying round for the World Cup, beating Jordan 3-0.
On November 18, Bahrain crowned the champion of the GCC tournament for volleyball junior females, hosted by Kuwait.
United Arab Emirates Military: On February 20, the United Arab Emirates unveiled its first locally-manufactured military vehicle at the defence and security exhibition, the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (Idex) held in Dubai.
International accolades: On April 9, Two Emiratis won gold medals at the International Exhibition of Inventions in Geneva; Dr. Awwad Al-Khalaf and Yousef Boubess for their "speaking book," a book that operates by human touch.
On November 28, UAE's Minister of Interior entered the Guinness Book of World Records, for making the largest national logo in the world. As part of the National Day celebrations, the 160-metre long logo was made from 1.4 million date seeds.
Religious achievements: On August 3, UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al-Nahayan was chosen by the Dubai International Holy Quran Award, in its 15th edition, as its Islamic personality of the year.
On August 7, Abu Dhabi showcased an ancient Holy Kaabah cover, dating back 200 years.
Foreign policy: On March 10, the UAE signed an agreement with its neighbour, Iran, to solve the issue of three disputed islands.
On May 22, UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al-Nahayan urged Yemen to ensure the safety of his country's embassy in Sanaa, after it was besieged by unidentified gunmen.
On May 23, UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al-Nahayan receives apology over embassy incident in a telephone call from his Yemeni counterpart, Ali Abdallah Saleh.
On October 9, the UAE condemns attacks on its embassy in the Syrian capital, Damascus, following a unanimous vote to suspend Syria's Arab League membership, as a result of the political turmoil in the country.
On December 7, the UAE announces keenness to train Iraqi security forces, a decision that was welcomed by Iraq.
Aid relief: On May 23, UAE announces relief delivered to victims of famine and malnutrition in Somalia and the Horn of Africa amounted to USD 48.5 million.
On September 11, the UAE announces ambitious initiative to support food security in the Arab world and to address the famine in the Horn of Africa, to be presented, in Dubai, at the Second Arab Industries Forum in January 4, 2012.
Local politics: On August 17, Some 477 candidates apply for the Federal National Council parliamentary elections, held for the second time - with voting to begin on September 23.
On September 24, The Federal National Council announces its 20 members, representing a huge leap in democratic reform.
Terrorism: On April 2, The UAE Army is successful in freeing captured ship, held captive at the hands of pirates, east of Oman in the Arab Sea.
Disasters: On April 2, A person was killed and another 61 injured in a collision of 127 vehicles on a highway between the emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Economy: On March 27, The UAE is ranked seventh in the world in terms of efficiency of government spending, according to the World Economic Forum's 2010-2011 Global Competitiveness Report.
On May 10, The Emirates Group, which combines Emirates airline and air travel service provider Dnata, announced record profits of 5.9 billion dirhams (USD 1.6 billion) in the 2010-2011 financial year.
On August 16, UAE Economy Minister Sultan bin Saeed Al-Mansouri says his country is one of the biggest receivers of direct foreign investments in the Gulf, worth USD 74 billion.
On September 7, The UAE is ranked 27th in the world in the Global Competitiveness Report issued by the World Economic Forum (WEF), among 142 countries surveyed.

-- Bahrain Political crisis: On February 14, Local demonstrations began calling for a new constitution and the release of hundreds of Shiite captives. An unauthorized march of around 100 people attacked police in Karzakan, northwest of the country, injuring three policemen. The continued protests spark the concern of the Sunni ruling regime, which announces political reforms along with financial incentives given out to the lower-income class.
On February 15, Bahraini Shiite protesters demand new constitution and prisoner release, Bahraini Foreign Ministry says it dealt with protests and demonstrations in "gradual and legal manner".
On February 16, King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa announces formation of investigative committee into the reasons behind the death of two people amid local protests, expressing sorrow over the incident on state television.
On February 17, Bahrain Defence Force begin deployment in the capital, Manama, on a mission to secure the safety and security of citizens and residents along with their freedoms and belongings from the threat of violence, according to spokesperson. Security forces clear Pearl Roundabout of protesters, after all efforts of dialogue to resolve the crisis fail, leading to two deaths and several injuries.
On February 18, Bahraini Ministry of Interior denies use of vertical planes to attack group of protesters, who were heading to Pearl Roundabout.
On February 19, Bahraini Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of Bahrain Defence Force Prince Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, orders immediate evacuation of all military forces from the streets of the country, noting that police will continue its role in attaining law and order. King Hamad calls for reconciliation talks with opposition parties to meet the hopes and aspirations of the people, tasking Prince Salman with the role of hosting the dialogue. The UAE back these talks, calling on the people of Bahrain to respond to the King's initiative.
On February 21, King Hamad releases several convicts and puts a stop to criminal proceedings taken out against several members of the opposition.
On March 6, Thousands protest outside Gudaibiya Palace in Manama, calling for the dissolve of the cabinet, leading to the postponement of a weekly session.
On March 16, Ministry of Interior says two policemen die in hit and run, with the assailants announced captured, close to Pearl Roundabout.
On March 17, Six members of the opposition Al-Wifaq movement are captured by Bahraini forces.
On March 18, Thousands march in an area close to Manama, in a defying gesture of a declared state of emergency.
On April 28, Bahrain issues life sentence for four people and capital punishment for three others over the killing of two policemen during political turmoil.
On February 21, King Hamad makes minor cabinet reshuffle, dismissing three ministers he accused of inciting the recent chaos, on a day of public mourning. The king also announces reductions to mortgages.
On March 15, Three-month public state of emergency announced.
On March 18, Government makes changes to Pearl Roundabout, claiming that the step comes to "improve services, infrastructure and the flow of traffic".
On March 21, Ministry of Interior says life back to normal, people returning to work.
On March 23, King Hamad appoints new two new ministers for housing and social development, Basim bin Yaqoub and Fatima bint Mohammad Al-Belousi, respectively.
On May 8, King Hamad lifts state of emergency, effective as of June.
On June 29, King Hamad announces the formation of an independent fact-finding committee to investigate the recent turn of events.
On November 21, Government says the independent report, due to be delivered to the king, reflects the king's keenness in revealing the truth behind the recent incidents.
On November 23, Government says the report will result in long-term reforms and an exit from the political crisis.
On November 28, Bahraini Foreign Minister Sheikh Khaled bin Ahmed Al-Khalifa calls on opposition parties to join a national committee tasked with revising the recommendations set forth by the report. The move is backed by the Arab League.
On July 5, National dialogue spokesperson says opposition parties, Al-Wifaq and Waad, participate in talks, he describes as "positive".
On July 17, Opposition Shiite movement, Al-Wifaq, announce withdrawal from talks, citing the lack of seriousness on the government's part to achieve the aspired democratic reform.
GCC Peninsula Shield and foreign reactions: On February 17, The Gulf Cooperation Council announces its political, economic, security and defensive support of Bahrain, against any threats the Gulf country could be faced with from any nation.
On March 10, A GCC meeting of Foreign Ministers in Riyadh reiterates Bahraini support, along with the signature of an economic cooperation agreement.
On March 14, The GCC's combined forces of the Peninsula Shield arrive in Manama, after recent political events lead to public destabilization. Iran rejects the step and calls on Bahraini government to prevent the process.
On March 17, Bahrain regards Iran's letters to the UN, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and Arab League as an intervention into its public affairs and a violation of the sovereignty of the Gulf country, which is a full-fledged member of the UN.
On March 20, Bahrain makes a direct complaint to the UN over the incident with Iran. On March 21, Iran expels a leading Bahraini diplomat in response to the Bahraini expulsion of the Iranian Charge d'Affairs in Manama.
On April 25, The Iranian Embassy in Manama's Second Secretary declared persona non grata due to links with alleged Iranian spy network in Kuwait.
On May 14, Bahraini Foreign Minister Sheikh Khaled bin Ahmed Al-Khalifa describes statements made by his Iranian counterpart Ali Akbar Salehi, in support of a recent speech made by King Hamad, as "a positive and encouraging step that boosts relations between both nations." On May 20, Bahrain welcomes US President Barack Obama's speech on Bahraini vision.

-- Foreign policy: On June 4, Bahrain summons Iraqi Charge d'Affairs in the country, on the backdrop of recent negative statements made by Iraqi MP Ahmad Al-Jalabi.
On July 14, Bahrain calls on its permanent envoys in the Arab League, OIC and GCC to deliver an urgent memo on the continued Iranian intervention into its public affairs.
On August 9, Bahrain withdraws its envoy in Syria for consultation.
On February 11, King hands out BD 1,000 to Bahraini families.
On July 28, King orders salary increase of civilians, military and pensioners.
On September 20, Bahrain forms fund to compensate those affected by the recent political turmoil.
On November 2, Bahrain forms 100 million-dinar-worth food investment fund to achieve food self sufficiency.
On November 12, Bahrain's Interior Ministry announces the capture of a terrorist cell which plotted to carry out attacks of public buildings in the country.
On December 4, Explosion close to British Embassy in Manama leaves behind no injuries or casualties, says Bahraini Interior Ministry.
On March 29, Bahraini parliament agrees to resignation of 11 Al-Wifaq party MPs.
On September 24, Supplementary elections begin to fill in 14 vacant spots, left behind by the resigned MPs, out of 18 seats in the parliament.
On November 21, Cabinet passes bills on the incrimination of torture and on giving the national human rights body official representation and independent funding.
Economy: On January 12, Bahrain is among the world's top 10 most economically free nations according to the annual Index of Economic Freedom, published by The Heritage Foundation and Wall Street Journal.
On May 24, Bahrain freezes its Chamber of Commerce and Industry partnerships with Iran, Iraq and Lebanon, after anti-Bahraini statements made by local officials in the three countries.
On November 12, Bahraini Minister of Energy Abdulhussain Mirza unveils new state-owned liquefied natural gas tanker.
Saudi Arabia: With deep grief and sorrow, the Arab and Muslim world lost Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Saudi crown prince, first deputy prime minister, minister of defense and aviation and general inspector, who passed away at 86 on October 22 after a long struggle with disease.
Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz is the 15th son of late King Abdulaziz and half-brother of King Abdullah. He was taught Holy Quran and Arabic sciences by great scholars and tutors. He then joined a special school for princes.
He held several posts since the era of his father, king Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud. He was the governor of Riyadh in 1947, minister of agriculture in 1953, minister of communications in 1955, minister of defense and aviation in 1962, second deputy prime minister, minister of defense and aviation and general inspector in 1982. He became crown prince and first deputy prime minister in 2005.
The late prince had a great record of charitable activities both at home and abroad. His charitable efforts turned into a charity supervised by specialized bodies, primarily Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Foundation Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Special Committee for Relief.
On October 27, Saudi King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz issued a decree appointing Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz crown prince, deputy prime and interior minister succeeding the late prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz. The decree came following consultation with the head and members of the Allegiance Council and pursuant to the ruling statute. Nayef was second deputy prime minister in 2009, together with his post as interior minister, which he has retained since 1975.
Democracy and internal situations: On January 15 Saudi King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz issued a royal decree relieving Chairman of the Public Authority for Youth Care Prince Sultan bin Fahad bin Abdulaziz of his post, and handpicking his deputy Nawaf bin Faisal bin Fahad bin Abdulaziz as his successor due to the failure of the Saudi football team in the first round of the Asian football championship.
On January 23, The governor of Riyadh Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz sponsored a ceremony for laying the cornerstone of a project aiming to expand the building of the GCC Secretariat, in the presence of several princes, ministers, ambassadors and social and media figures.
On March 14, The Saudi King presided over a National Security Council meeting to review all issues related to national security in the kingdom. On the same day, the king expressed the kingdom's opposition to interference in its internal affairs.
On March 18, The Saudi King issued a package of royal orders aiming to improve the living conditions of citizens, involving all categories of the society. They included the disbursement of two months salaries to civil servants and two months rewards to higher education students, 2,000 riyals to scholars, social allowance of 15 percent of pays and raising the minimum salary of Saudi citizens up to 3,000 riyals.
They also provide for building 500,000 residential units in all regions of the Kingdom and appropriating a total amount of 250 billion riyals for that project which will be implemented under the supervision of the General Commission for Housing, as well as raising the amount of the upper limit of the loan by Real Estate Development Fund from 300,000 riyals to 500,000.
The royal orders also included the building of 500,000 residential units in all regions of the Kingdom and appropriating a total amount of 250 billion riyals for that project which will be implemented under the supervision of the General Commission for Housing and raising the amount of the upper limit of the loan by Real Estate Development Fund from 300,000 to 500,000 riyals.
It was further decided to allocate 16 billion riyals for improving health services and raising the minimum limit for financing the private health sector from 50 million to 200 million riyals, to create an anti-corruption body, to provide 60,000 military jobs, to set up a religious complex, to earmark 500 million riyal for restoring mosques, 200 million riyals for Quran teaching societies, 300 million riyals for Islamic advocacy and guidance offices and 200 million riyals for the Commission of Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice in the Kingdom.
On March 25, The Saudi King issued a royal decree authorizing a Ministry of Housing.
On June 13, The Saudi Cabinet reaffirmed the kingdom's declared and firm position on the Arab events and stressed the necessity of dealing with them in a way that would save the lives of people and protect the unity and stability of Arab countries.

KUWAIT -- Saudi women's participation in parliament: On September 25, Saudi King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz said in a royal address during the fifth session of the Saudi Shura Council that Saudi women would be allowed to participate in the forthcoming Shura and municipal elections.
On September 25, Bahraini Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa applauded the Saudi King's remarks reiterating commitment to Gulf security, supporting development and economy and backing Saudi women.
On September 26, EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton welcomed the Saudi King's recent decrees enfranchising Saudi women.
On September 27, Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu welcomed the Saudi King's decrees at the Shura Council allowing Saudi women to get involved in politics. On the same day, the Inter-Parliament Union (IPU) applauded the decrees.
Appointments: On July 22, The Saudi King issued a royal decree appointing Prince Abdulaziz bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz deputy foreign minister with the rank of minister.
On November 5, The Saudi King issued a number of royal decrees picking Prince Fahad bin Abdullah bin Mohammad Al Saud chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority with the rank of minister, Prince Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz chief of the Crown Prince's Diwan, Abdulrahman bin Ali Al-Rubaian secretary of the Crown Prince, Prince Khalid bin Sultan deputy defense minister and Riyadh governor Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz minister of defense to succeed late prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz.
On December 13, The Saudi King made several royal decrees relieving Deputy Minister of Education Faisal bin Muamar advisor to the Saudi King, and picking Bandar Hajjar as new Minister of Hajj. The ministers of economy and planning, civil service, and commerce and industry and chairman of the Saudi Arabian Monetary Foundation were relieved of their posts.
Foreign and regional relations: On January 3, Saudi Arabia joined an international contact group for peace negotiations between Manila government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) upon request from the Philippine government.
On March 19, Saudi Arabia condemned the attack on its diplomatic mission in Iran, and called on the Iranian government to protect its mission as per international laws and agreements On April 1, Saudi Arabia denounced Iranian remarks warning Riyadh "not to play with fire" and calling on it to withdraw its forces from Bahrain.
On May 3, Saudi Arabia said the Saudi diplomat kidnapped in Sanaa, Said Al-Malki, was freed following intensive contacts and efforts.
On August 15, Saudi Arabia recalled its ambassador in Syria for consultation over the Syrian crisis, calling on Damascus to stop killing and bloodshed.
On August 15, The Saudi cabinet stressed the significance of dissuading from violence while handling the events of some Arab countries, calling for an immediate cessation of force use.
On October 12, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al-Faisal and his Austrian counterpart Michael Spindelegger signed a memo of understanding targeting periodical political consultations between both sides and developing bilateral cultural, economic and political relations.
On October 15, Saudi Ambassador in Egypt Ahmad Qattan announced a Saudi pledge for concessionary loans worth 1.450 billion US dollars to Egypt.
On October 27, The Saudi King instructed USD-50-million aid relief aid to earthquake-hit Turkey.
Assassination attempt against Saudi Ambassador in US: On October 12, Saudi Arabia openly condemned the heinous attempt on the life of the Saudi ambassador in the US as a violation of human values and morality and international norms.
On October 13, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al-Faisal said information on the assassination plot against the Saudi ambassador's life indicated that Tehran was involved in the incident.
On October 15, The Islamic World League condemned the Iranian conspiracy to kill the Saudi ambassador in Washington Adel Al-Jubeir as a terrorist act.
On October 16, The Saudi Shura Council condemned the assassination plot against the Saudi diplomat.
On November 14, The Saudi Shura Council vehemently condemned an attack by Syrian protesters on the Saudi Embassy in Damascus on the eve of an Arab League resolution suspending Syria's membership.
Natural disasters: On January 7, A military helicopter designed for medical evacuation crashed in south Riyadh, with its four crewmen killed.
On January 27, Saudi Arabia said four people were killed in heavy rains in Jeddah.
Terrorism: On May 16, Hassan Al-Qahtani, an officer in the Saudi consulate in Karachi, was killed in a shooting near the consulate. The shooting was condemned by GCC Secretary General Abdel-Latif Al-Zayani and the Saudi cabinet.
On October 4, The Saudi Interior Minister said Saudi security forces dispersed a protest by a group of rioters in Al-Awamiya in Al-Qutaif, which claimed the lives of several security men, a civilian and two men. (end) rk.mt.gb.sd