GCC Secretary General meets Syrian leader, advocates stability, sovereignty
(X/@GCCSG)
Jasem Al-Budaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), met with Syria’s new leader, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, in Damascus on Monday, reaffirming the GCC’s commitment to Syria’s unity and stability.
The visit, accompanied by Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya, emphasized fostering security, prosperity, and development for the Syrian people, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Al-Budaiwi highlighted the Gulf countries’ long-standing position on respecting Syria’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, rejecting foreign interventions, and combating terrorism and extremism. He underscored the need to preserve Syria’s cultural and religious diversity.
Condemning Israeli attacks on Syrian territory, the secretary-general called for Israel to cease settlement activities and withdraw from occupied Syrian lands, particularly the Golan Heights, which he reaffirmed as Syrian territory.
He advocated lifting economic sanctions on Syria to provide much-needed humanitarian and economic support, aiding the Syrian population in rebuilding their lives.
Al-Budaiwi also stressed the importance of promoting national reconciliation, restoring state control over all armed factions, and ensuring the safety of civilians.
The GCC expressed support for the UN’s initiative to establish a mission facilitating a Syrian-led political transition in accordance with the UN Charter.
Al-Budaiwi reiterated the Gulf bloc‘s readiness to back efforts aimed at rebuilding the Syrian state and fostering a sustainable, inclusive peace process that benefits the Syrian people.
