Manama:Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Bahrain's Minister of Foreign Affairs, presided over the 168th Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Ministerial Council meeting, which was attended by GCC foreign ministers and Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Dr. Al Zayani conveyed greetings from His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and emphasized Bahrain's commitment to enhancing GCC integration and the shared security and prosperity of the member states. The meeting discussed progress on initiatives from the 19th GCC Consultative Summit, including advancing the GCC railway project, expanding electricity and water interconnections, and enhancing cooperation in various sectors such as energy and healthcare.
Dr. Al Zayani condemned Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabian civilian facilities and reaffirmed the GCC's solidarity with Saudi Arabia, supporting its right to self-defense under the UN Charter. He backed a draft resolution by Saudi Arabia to the UN Security Council and called for safeguarding navigation freedom in strategic waterways following a UN Security Council resolution aimed at maritime safety.
He welcomed mediation efforts by Oman and Qatar in US-Iran relations and highlighted the need for negotiations to address Iran's nuclear and missile programs. The Foreign Minister reiterated support for Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council and a political settlement based on international agreements.
GCC Secretary-General Albudaiwi praised Bahrain's presidency efforts to strengthen member state coordination. He condemned Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and criticized Iran's threats to regional security. Albudaiwi also announced the conclusion of free trade agreement negotiations between the GCC and the United Kingdom, marking a significant milestone in their relations.
The Council reviewed ongoing GCC economic integration efforts, regional challenges, and free trade negotiations, while discussing measures to reduce tensions and ensure maritime safety. Bahrain's delegation was led by Ambassador Shaikh Abdullah bin Ali Al Khalifa and included key diplomatic figures from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.