GCC officials wrap up Riyadh Summit with focus on 'regional unity'

King Salman, Gulf leaders, and heads of delegations from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) States wrapped up on Sunday the 39th session of the GCC Summit, in which they discussed regional and Iran’s “meddling” in regional affairs.

“In order to enhance the security, stability, development, prosperity and wellbeing of the citizens of member states, the GCC has become our fundamental asset,” said King Salman.

The GCC Secretary-General, Dr. Abdullatif al-Zayani, also read the final communiqué of the meeting, the "Riyadh Declaration.”

“Today, the countries’ leaders reaffirm their eagerness to maintain the strength and cohesion of the GCC, and the unity of its members, due to their special relations and common characteristics based on Islamic faith, Arab culture, long history, common destiny as well as the unity of purposes that connect their nations,” the communique said.

At the economic level, leaders called for strict commitment to the timelines that have been set to accomplish economic integration among the GCC states.

Officials also called for implementing terms of economic agreements, and removing all obstacles getting in the way of joint action resolutions. This included overcoming barriers and issuing necessary legislative regulations to achieve economic unity among GCC states by 2025.

Member states also pledged support for the Palestinian cause, the Syrian crisis and the conflict in Yemen. They also rejected Iran’s attempts to destabilize the region by promoting terrorism and interfering in internal affairs of other countries.

King Salman also stressed that the Kingdom continues to defend Arab and Islamic issues in international forums.

The meeting included heads of delegations and leaders from the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman. A delegation from Qatar attended the Summit. However, Qatar’s Emir was not present.