Post by : Maya Rahman

Representatives from the Shura, national, and Ummah councils of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) assembled in Manama, Bahrain, for their 19th periodic meeting. This gathering highlighted significant regional and global developments, with a focus on Saudi Arabia's robust diplomatic and humanitarian initiatives recently. The Kingdom was represented by Shura Council Speaker Sheikh Dr. Abdullah Al Al-Sheikh.

The leaders expressed their gratitude for the outcomes of the Gulf-U.S. Summit hosted by Saudi Arabia in May, suggesting that it significantly bolstered cooperation between Gulf nations and the United States. They noted that the discussions helped contribute to a more secure and stable region. The leaders emphasized the Kingdom's ongoing role in promoting dialogue, security, and economic ties among Gulf states and the international community.

A substantial portion of the statement centered around Saudi Arabia's recent diplomatic initiatives to advance the Palestinian cause. They commended the Kingdom for its co-chairing of the High-Level International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine, held in New York City in September, viewing it as a pivotal moment that renewed focus on achieving enduring peace via the two-state solution. The leaders underscored the significance of this international commitment to justice for Palestinians.

Additionally, the GCC legislative leaders praised the efforts of the ministerial committee led by Saudi Arabia, established during the Joint Arab-Islamic Extraordinary Summit to counter Israeli aggression against the Palestinians. They recognized the committee's crucial role in advocating for an end to violence, ensuring civilian protection, and laying the groundwork for Gaza's reconstruction. The leaders lauded the Kingdom for its principled leadership in these humanitarian and diplomatic endeavors.

Moreover, the GCC leaders commended the Arab ministerial committee, led by Bahrain, for its continuous efforts to enhance international recognition for Palestine. They stressed that this committee's activities should persist, actively engaging with global organizations and governments. The leaders insisted that sustained international endorsement is vital for forging a just and lasting resolution for Palestine.

As the meeting wrapped up, the GCC leaders conveyed congratulations to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, celebrating Saudi Arabia's successful bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2034. They regarded this victory as a tremendous accomplishment for both the Kingdom and the Gulf region, highlighting its potential to enhance the region's sports industry, tourism, and global reputation.

In conclusion, the GCC legislative bodies reaffirmed the necessity for continued collaboration among Gulf nations. They reiterated support for Saudi Arabia's role in fostering regional peace, humanitarian efforts, and international outreach. The meeting concluded with a unified commitment to ensuring stability, development, and solidarity across the Gulf, with leaders agreeing that recent achievements should motivate further collective initiatives in the future.

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