LOC18:39
15:39 GMT
MAKKA, March 7 (KUNA) -- Kuwait's Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullah Al-Yahya has extolled the GCC's outstanding role in enhancing the region's security and stability frameworks, and overcoming challenges facing the Muslim and Arab worlds.
Speaking in a joint news conference with GCC Secretary General Jassem Al-Budaiwi on Friday, Al-Yahya, also head of the 163rd GCC Ministerial Council meeting, said the gathering discussed the latest developments of the joint GCC action and means of boosting cooperation in political, economic, security and developmental fields, under the GCC leaders' directives.
On the sidelines of the 163rd session, some joint ministerial meetings with brothers in Egypt, Syria, Morocco and Jordan were held, he said, adding they were an opportunity to share views about international and regional issues.
He affirmed the GCC's unwavering position to inalienable rights of Palestinian people topped with establishing their independent state on the June 4 1967 with East Jerusalem as its capital.
On Syria, Al-Yahya reiterated the GCC support for a political solution, in line with the UN Security Council Resolution 2254, in a manner that maintains Syria's unity and sovereignty, and ensures the return of refugees.
He also referred to the GCC's backing to end Syrians' sufferings, and continue relief efforts and humanitarian aid to help brothers in Syrians overcome these current challenges.
He indicated that some other regional developments of mutual concern were dealt with, re-affirming GCC states' commitment to continuing efforts to enhance collaboration and integration in varied fields as well as working with brothers and international and regional partners to achieve security and stability in the region.
In reply to a question on re-opening Kuwait Embassy in Syria, Al-Yahya said the embassy is open and diplomats would be named to resume their duties soon.
On backing Lebanon, he said cooperation with Lebanon would be done through development funds and direct investments.
Concerning sanctions on Syria, Al-Yahya noted that "we would work to find the best solutions" and means to deal with the current situation, and urge friendly countries to lift sanctions.
Al-Yahya thanked foreign ministers of GCC States, Syria, Morocco and Jordan, as well as GCC Secretary General and Secretariat for their sincere efforts in organizing and preparing this successful meeting.
He also thanked Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan for warm reception and hospitality.
Meanwhile, GCC chief reviewed the topics discussed in the joint meetings with Egypt, Syria, Morocco and Jordan, as well as means of enhancing strategic relations and joint work in many domains, in a manner that contributes to achieving common interests and continuing consultation, coordination and exchange of views on regional and international issues of common interest.
He pointed to the GCC ministerial meeting's discussion of some reports on following implementing the resolutions of the GCC supreme council issued by the 45th summit held in Kuwait in 2024. (pickup previous)
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