MANAMA, Dec 3 (KUNA) -- The Kingdom of Bahrain is committed to advancing the path of joint Gulf cooperation, which is rooted in strong fraternal ties and unified goals and destiny, said the Bahraini King Hamad bin Issa.
In his opening remarks of the 46th Summit of the Gulf Cooperation Council, King Hamad conveyed his sincere appreciation to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for the wise leadership of the previous session and the fruitful outcomes achieved in support of the supreme interests of the GCC and the aspirations of its peoples.
King Hamad's statement noted that a reflection on the GCC's distinguished journey, initiated by the founding fathers with dedication and goodwill, reaffirms the soundness of their vision regarding deeper integration and unity, in line with the region's strategic weight and its influential role in regional and international politics, as stipulated in the Council's basic charter.
He emphasized that practical experience has demonstrated the success of the GCC model as a comprehensive developmental framework capable of balancing global competitiveness with sustained stability and prosperity.
These achievements would not have been possible without a shared vision, unified policies, and clear priorities centered on reinforcing Gulf security, safeguarding national sovereignty, respecting the principles of good neighbourliness, and rejecting interference in internal affairs, King Hamad added.
King Hamad further praised the progress achieved across various fields of cooperation, particularly in the areas of Gulf citizenship and economic unity, expressing hope for the completion of the customs union and the Gulf common market, as well as the expansion of partnerships in food and water security, the digital economy, renewable energy, and other vital sectors.
In light of the rapid developments in the region, King Hamad underscored the importance of continuing joint efforts with determination, wisdom, and openness to address regional issues, foremost among them the Palestinian cause, through dialogue and political and diplomatic solutions that enhance stability and open sustainable prospects for the region's security and development.
King Hamad shed light on his country's reaffirmation of the importance of implementing the Gaza peace plan, viewing it as a positive step toward de-escalation and creating conditions conducive to achieving just and lasting peace, including the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with international legitimacy and the Arab Peace Initiative.
On Gulf security and regional stability, King Hamad stressed the need to protect maritime navigation and international trade from any threat, and to preserve the region's freedom from weapons of mass destruction, in line with the GCC's strategic orientations in security and collective defense.
King Hamad concluded his speech by calling for continued efforts to make the GCC a renewed pledge for unity, a fair and open Gulf market, and a soft power capable of preserving identity, safeguarding social cohesion, and shaping a future where development is built on knowledge, innovation, and dignity. (pickup previous) aa