GCC… 43 Years of Regional Interaction, Distinguished International Presence – Report -2-

In the healthcare sector, GCC countries have demonstrated significant cooperation through the exchange of medical expertise and technologies among member states and coordination to combat epidemics and maintain the health of communities in the region. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the GCC played a crucial role in collaboration and coordination among member states to fight the spread of the virus, tackle the challenges of the pandemic, implement preventive measures, and regulate international travel and trade. One of the most important infrastructure projects approved by the GCC is the electrical interconnection between member states. The benefits of this project include reducing the reserve required in each country, mutual coverage in emergencies, utilization of surplus electricity, and reducing the cost of electricity production. The Supreme Council also approved the media strategy, aiming to enhance cooperation and unity among GCC countries, solidify the Gulf, Arab, and Islamic identities of the GCC state s, deepen Gulf citizenship, support the cohesion, security, and stability of the Gulf society, raise public awareness among citizens and residents, and support the Council's journey and cooperation and integration between official and non-official institutions in member states. In its 33rd session, the Supreme Council adopted the petroleum strategy for member states, recognizing the global political and economic importance of the GCC countries, their leadership role in the petroleum industry, and their significant oil reserves, making them the largest region for oil production and export. The GCC is a reliable economic player internationally, representing a large market for exports from around the world. The member states play a crucial role in supplying global energy markets with oil and gas, which are the main drivers of the global economy and account for about 60 percent of the energy consumed worldwide. GCC countries cooperate extensively in all environmental sectors and work with organizations focused on environmental protection and conservation of natural resources. They have joined numerous regional and international agreements and treaties on the environment, wildlife protection, natural resource conservation, biodiversity, ozone layer protection, climate change, desertification combat, and international trade in endangered species. In terms of foreign policy, the GCC has worked to formulate joint and unified stances on political issues affecting its six member states within Arab, regional, and international frameworks. The Council acts as a single entity in the world based on principles of mutual respect, non-interference in internal affairs, and consideration of common interests, safeguarding the interests of member states, enhancing their security, stability, and prosperity. On this path, the GCC has succeeded in strengthening its regional position and confirming its presence on the international stage, becoming a reliable and active partner in establishing global security and stability. Since its i nception, the Council has aimed to expand its strategic partnerships and dialogues with many countries and blocs, engaging in free trade negotiations with international economic groups to achieve common interests. The GCC countries have signed numerous free trade agreements with other nations worldwide to facilitate the movement of goods, enhance interregional trade, expand investment opportunities, and foster strong trade relations. Thus, the journey of the Gulf Cooperation Council continues with determination and confidence from its leaders and people, looking forward to a bright future and more achievements, and implementing ambitious developmental plans in each member state to achieve comprehensive and sustainable development goals. These plans focus on the Gulf citizen as the central axis of development, its main objective, and its primary driver. The advanced global indicators reflect the economic status of the GCC countries, which have become a pioneering model not only nationally but also regionally and globally. Source: Qatar News Agency