Manama : The 45th Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit will convene on December 1 in Kuwait, bringing together the leaders of GCC member states, to address pressing regional and global challenges. The summit underscores the importance of collective action in strengthening Gulf cooperation, building on more than four decades of progress and positioning the GCC as one of the most successful regional organisations globally.
Since its establishment 43 years ago, the GCC has been guided by its charter principles, advancing prosperity and stability across member states under the leadership of their rulers. The bloc’s achievements span economic development, security, and cultural integration, with a commitment to unified policies and mutual progress.
The Kingdom of Bahrain, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, remains a dedicated contributor to Gulf initiatives. His Majesty’s vision, reinforced by the efforts of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, reflects Bahrain’s unwavering support for shared goals and regional cooperation.
Bahrain has played a pivotal role in enhancing joint Gulf initiatives through agreements, memorandums of understanding, and collaborative protocols, solidifying its contributions to regional security, stability, and sustainable development. Its balanced foreign policy and proactive diplomacy have further strengthened Gulf unity, ensuring alignment in shared positions and decisions across critical issues.
Leaders of GCC member states have consistently advanced cooperation across multiple sectors, including finance, trade, investment, energy, environment, education, technology, youth, and sports. Enhanced collaboration in security, defence, and counterterrorism has also reinforced the region’s stability and resilience against global threats.
In addressing escalating political crises in the Middle East, GCC nations have intensified efforts to de-escalate conflicts and foster regional stability. Their initiatives include political, security, and humanitarian measures to mitigate violence, reduce economic and human losses, and contribute to international peace and security efforts.
Strategic partnerships with key nations and international organisations have elevated the GCC’s role on the global stage. Adherence to international laws, respect for sovereignty, and a focus on shared prosperity have made the bloc a model of effective regional cooperation.
The GCC’s initiatives have yielded substantial progress in economic, social, and technological sectors, enhancing the quality of life for Gulf citizens. The region’s stability and commitment to peace have attracted expatriates, investors, and tourists, bolstering its global appeal.
Since the inaugural GCC Summit in Abu Dhabi on May 25, 1981, the organisation has held 44 regular summits, alongside extraordinary sessions addressing critical regional and international issues. Notable extraordinary summits include the 2009 Riyadh session under the late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and the 2019 Mecca session chaired by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.
The 45th GCC Summit will build on this legacy, driving progress and cooperation as the region continues to navigate global challenges and opportunities.
