GCC Secretary-General Calls for Decisive Action to Enforce Ceasefire in Gaza.

Kuwait City: Secretary-General of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) Jassim Mohammed Al Budaiwi stressed the importance of the international community taking decisive action to fulfill its humanitarian and legal responsibilities, and working towards an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire to alleviate the suffering of innocent civilians in Gaza. According to Qatar News Agency, speaking at the 45th GCC Summit hosted by Kuwait, Al Budaiwi stated that this meeting is being held in a time of sensitive regional conditions and rapid developments that urge the strengthening of solidarity and the reinforcement of unity among GCC nations. He emphasized the need to continue working diligently to uphold the principles on which the GCC is founded, noting that these principles have made the GCC a model for unity and integration. Al Budaiwi highlighted the ongoing crisis faced by the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank due to Israel's occupation. He pointed out that the conflict has s pread to Lebanon, causing further military escalation and increased tensions across the region. He commended the unwavering support of GCC countries for the Palestinian cause, reflecting their deep-rooted Arab and Islamic solidarity and ethical commitment to standing with the Palestinian people. He also noted the GCC's achievements, emphasizing the organization's wise policies and balanced approach, which have established it as an example of regional unity and a key player in international strategic partnerships. He highlighted the success of the first-ever Gulf-European summit in Brussels in October 2024, aimed at strengthening cooperation between the GCC and Europe on various fronts. Al Budaiwi mentioned that GCC countries have continued to strengthen strategic partnerships globally, conducting numerous joint ministerial meetings in 2024. He highlighted key accomplishments in free trade agreements, including the initial signing of agreements with Pakistan and South Korea in 2023, and the completion of neg otiations with New Zealand in 2024. He explained that the General Secretariat is preparing for strategic summits with ASEAN countries and Central Asian nations. GCC relations have been bolstered through numerous action plans and international partnerships, as well as the signing of multiple memoranda of understanding across various sectors. In military collaboration, Al Budaiwi emphasized strengthened cooperation in 2024, which included joint military exercises. He also mentioned the upcoming "Defender of the Gulf" exercise in the UAE in 2026, highlighting ongoing military cooperation success. In the security domain, he noted the adoption of a unified Gulf strategy to combat drugs in 2024 and the near completion of a project linking traffic systems and violations. Efforts to develop strategies for combating money laundering and updates to security and counter-extremism strategies are underway. In economic and development sectors, three high-level committees have been established for sovereign wealth funds , investment, and financial investigations. Twelve approved documents cover human affairs and environmental issues, including education, health, and social matters. He highlighted the adoption of documents related to economic affairs and noted support provided through the Gulf Electricity Interconnection Project, with significant savings for member states. Additionally, he mentioned the approval of advisory systems in the legal field. Al Budaiwi expressed gratitude for the continuous efforts of GCC member state leaders, reflecting their commitment to strengthening Gulf cooperation and enhancing unity among member states.