Doha, - The Supreme Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council issued the concluding statement of the forty-fourth Gulf Summit held today in Doha. In this statement, the Council expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people, condemning the aggression against Gaza. They urged the international community to halt the war on Gaza and praised the State of Qatar's efforts, in partnership with the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America, reaching in a humanitarian pause to alleviate the dire humanitarian conditions in the region, to release detainees, allow more humanitarian aid convoys, including fuel for essential needs.
The Council, in the concluding statement of the Doha Summit, extended congratulations to HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, for assuming the presidency of the current session. They expressed appreciation for his opening speech, emphasizing the importance of enhancing cooperation among the Council's member states across all domains. The Council also conveyed deep gratitude for the significant and sincere efforts of HM Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman and his government during Oman's presidency of the forty-third session, recognizing substantial progress and noteworthy achievements made during that period.
The Council commended the joint extraordinary Arab and Islamic summit convened by Saudi Arabia on Nov. 11 to address the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people, particularly in Gaza. It highlighted the efforts of the ministerial committee, chaired by Saudi Arabia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, aimed at formulating an international initiative to halt the war in Gaza. This initiative seeks to push for a genuine and comprehensive political process for enduring peace based on recognized international references.
The Council commended the joint extraordinary Arab and Islamic summit convened by Saudi Arabia on Nov. 11 to address the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people, particularly in Gaza. It highlighted the efforts of the ministerial committee, chaired by Saudi Arabia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, aimed at formulating an international initiative to halt the war in Gaza. This initiative seeks to push for a genuine and comprehensive political process for enduring peace based on recognized international references.
Furthermore, the Council welcomed the outcomes of the 32nd Arab summit held in Saudi Arabia on May 19, 2023. It expressed hope that these efforts would contribute to de-escalation, cessation of targeting and forced displacement of Palestinian civilians, leading to a complete cessation of hostilities in Gaza. The Council emphasized the necessity for the international community to handle this issue without applying double standards.
The Council also praised Qatar's prominent role in mediation, resulting in the release of detainees in both Iran and the United States. This underscores Qatar's position as a trusted international mediation partner.
As for Turkiye's participation in the 44th Gulf Summit, the Council welcomed the esteemed guest, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkiye. Discussions focused on mutual interests, particularly the Palestinian issue and Israeli aggression on Gaza. Both sides emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation within the framework of strategic dialogue between the Gulf Cooperation Council and Turkiye. They agreed on the significance of implementing joint action plans, expanding their scope, and strengthening their partnership.
The Council extended heartfelt condolences to the victims of earthquakes in Morocco, southern Turkiye, and northern Syria. It expressed solidarity and support from the Gulf Cooperation Council countries for those affected, emphasizing their significant role in humanitarian and relief efforts.
The Supreme Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council commended the progress achieved by the United Arab Emirates in the field of space exploration. Following the success of the UAE's Mars exploration project and the lunar exploration project, the UAE accomplished another milestone with the successful completion of the first long-term mission for Arab astronauts. This achievement marked the return of the Emirati astronaut, Sultan Al Neyadi, to Earth in early Sep. 2023. It stands as a historical accomplishment for the UAE, following the completion of the 'Zayed 2 Project,' a six-month mission aboard the International Space Station. The mission achieved numerous scientific milestones, notably the first spacewalk by an Arab astronaut outside the International Space Station.
The Council also highlighted the progress made by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia within its space program for astronauts, exploring and utilizing outer space for peaceful purposes. This progress includes sending Saudi astronauts in May 2023 and the development of national talents and capabilities through the exchange and transfer of expertise in this field. It aims to enhance research and development activities, accelerate the growth of space-related technologies, resulting in positive outcomes for knowledge development, scientific research, and practical applications. Additionally, the Council reaffirmed its support for the decisions of the OPEC+ group aimed at achieving balance in oil markets, supporting prosperity for the region's peoples and the world, and bolstering global economic growth.
The Supreme Council congratulated the United Arab Emirates on hosting the COP28 Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. It praised the leading role undertaken by the UAE in confronting climate change, especially following the announcement by HH President of the UAE Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during the opening of the Heads of State Summit at the 28th Climate Conference on Dec. 1, 2023. The announcement included the establishment of a $30 billion global climate solutions fund, designed to bridge the climate financing gap, facilitate affordable access, and stimulate the mobilization and investment of $250 billion by 2030. Additionally, it declared the UAE's contribution of $100 million to the Climate Loss and Damage Fund.
Moreover, the Supreme Council celebrated the victory of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in hosting 'Expo 2030,' affirming its support for this hosting. It considered the success of this global event as a success for all countries and peoples of the council. Through organizing major events that promote cultural dialogue and facilitate communication, it reinforces the region's position as an international business hub. It expressed support for Saudi Arabia's hosting of the FIFA World Cup in 2034, wishing them success in hosting this global sporting event.
Furthermore, the Supreme Council extended congratulations to Qatar on the opening of 'Expo Doha 2023' for gardening, themed 'Green Desert... Better Environment.' It wished Qatar success in hosting this event to provide innovative solutions to combat desertification, support agriculture, promote environmental awareness, and ensure the sustainability of desert regions. (MORE)
Source: Qatar News Agency