GCC Ministerial Council Applauds Qatar’s Initiatives and Addresses Regional Stability Issues

The GCC Ministerial Council praised Qatar for its efforts towards a ceasefire in Gaza, supported the Palestinian-Egyptian-Arab plan, and emphasized humanitarian aid. It addressed Syria, Lebanon, and Sudan’s sovereignty and stability, reaffirmed its stance on the Russian-Ukrainian crisis, and welcomed enhanced economic relations with other nations, focusing on GCC unity and coordination.

The GCC Ministerial Council, in a concluding statement following its meetings in Makkah Al Mukarramah, commended Qatar’s contributions alongside Egypt and the United States in striving for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. It underscored the significance of adhering to the ceasefire agreement and called for an immediate halt to Israeli hostilities and a full withdrawal from Palestinian territories.

The Council expressed appreciation for Qatar’s role in organizing the upcoming 2024 Doha Forum, emphasizing its focus on innovation as a platform for addressing global challenges. Furthermore, the Ministerial Council reviewed advancements in collaborative Gulf initiatives and underscored the importance of unity among GCC member states to enhance coordination in various sectors.

Regarding the Gaza situation, the final statement reiterated the GCC’s solidarity with the Palestinian people and advocated for ending the blockade to ensure the safe delivery of humanitarian aid. The Council expressed its support for the Palestinian-Egyptian-Arab plan established during the extraordinary “Palestine Summit” held in Cairo on March 4, 2025, emphasizing the need for a unified Palestinian state in line with the two-state solution.

The Ministerial Council acknowledged the humanitarian efforts of GCC and Arab states in response to the ongoing crisis in Gaza, while also reiterating the necessity of preserving Syria’s sovereignty and stability amidst foreign interference.

Moreover, the GCC reaffirmed its unwavering support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and called for essential political and economic reforms to address the country’s ongoing crises effectively. The Council also emphasized the need to safeguard Sudan’s sovereignty and called for a return to a dialogue-based political process, highlighting the importance of maintaining the stability of national state institutions.

On the international front, the GCC’s stance regarding the Russian-Ukrainian crisis rests on upholding international law principles, notably the respect for state sovereignty and territorial integrity. Lastly, the Ministerial Council welcomed the results of the ministerial meeting involving multiple countries aimed at improving economic relations and enhancing the GCC’s international trade and investment interests through potential free trade agreements.

In conclusion, the GCC Ministerial Council has affirmed its strong stance on several crucial regional issues, particularly the ongoing situation in Gaza and the importance of fostering Palestinian unity. The Council’s support for Qatar’s initiatives, humanitarian efforts, and dedication to preserving the sovereignty of regional nations like Lebanon and Sudan underscores its commitment to stability and cooperation within the Gulf region. Furthermore, the Council’s positions on international matters reflect its dedication to maintaining lawful and peaceful relations among states.

Original Source: www.gulf-times.com