GCC urges global support for Syria, condemns regional instability
(From L) Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jassim al-Budaiwi, Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah al-Yahya, Qatar’s Minister of State Mohammed al-Khulaifi, Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid al-Zayani, and UAE’s Minister of State Khalifa Shaheen al-Marar pose for a picture after the meeting of Foreign Ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in Kuwait City on December 26, 2024. (AFP)
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) concluded its 46th extraordinary ministerial meeting on Thursday, emphasizing the economic empowerment of Syria and calling for the lifting of international sanctions on the country.
In its final statement, the GCC urged global partners to support the Syrian people and reiterated its commitment to ongoing humanitarian aid.
The meeting, held in Kuwait, stressed Syria’s importance to regional security and stability. The GCC called for respecting Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while opposing foreign interference.
It also underscored the need to combat terrorism and promote diversity, urging respect for beliefs to reduce tensions.
The council supported a political transition to meet Syrians’ aspirations for stability and welcomed initiatives for national reconciliation, civilian protection, and the preservation of state institutions. It also endorsed dissolving militias and ensuring only the Syrian state controls arms, viewing this as essential to restoring order.
Condemning Israeli attacks on Syria, the GCC described them as violations of sovereignty and international agreements, urging Israel to withdraw from occupied Syrian territories. The council called on the global community to halt such aggressions.
On Lebanon, the GCC reaffirmed its support for the country’s sovereignty, calling for reforms to address crises and prevent destabilization. It highlighted the need to strengthen Lebanon’s armed forces and security agencies.
Regarding Gaza, the GCC endorsed Palestinian rights and backed mediation efforts for hostages’ release. It demanded an immediate ceasefire, lifting the blockade, opening crossings, and providing humanitarian aid to Gaza’s population.
