GCC Summit Concludes in Manama, Calls for Indivisible Regional Security
Manama, Bahrain: The 46th Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit concluded in Manama with the adoption of the Sakhir Declaration, a statement reaffirming the commitment of the six member states—Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE—to deeper political, security, and economic integration amidst heightened regional tensions.
Hosted at Bahrain’s Sakhir Palace, the declaration strongly emphasized the collective security doctrine, stressing that the stability of member states is indivisible, and any violation of a country’s sovereignty constitutes a direct threat to the entire bloc. Leaders reiterated their firm rejection of foreign interference and the use of force in regional affairs.
On the economic front, the declaration called for strengthening the GCC Common Market and Customs Union, enhancing intra-regional trade and tourism, and promoting investment in strategic projects. Key focus areas include expanding digital infrastructure, developing shared systems for e-commerce, and advancing joint initiatives in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
The leaders also affirmed their support for the two-state solution for Palestine and backed efforts to deliver humanitarian aid and rebuild Gaza. Security cooperation was intensified, with agreements to counter extremism and support joint naval security based in Bahrain. Furthermore, the summit agreed on a joint action plan to advance ties with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who participated in the discussions.