GCC Secretary General Jassem Al-Budaiwi announced the formation of high-level committees focusing on sovereign funds, investments, and financial investigations during the 45th GCC Summit hosted by Kuwait on Sunday. In his address, Al-Budaiwi urged the international community to take decisive action to end the war in Gaza. "We convene today amid sensitive regional circumstances and rapidly evolving events, underscoring the need to strengthen solidarity and deepen unity among our nations," he said. Al-Budaiwi highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis facing Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank due to ongoing Israeli military aggression, which has also affected Lebanon. He praised the steadfast positions of GCC countries in supporting the Palestinian cause, reflecting their Arab and Islamic identity and ethical commitment to standing with the Palestinian people. The Secretary General expressed appreciation for Saudi Arabia's leadership in hosting the extraordinary Arab-Islamic summit, which emphasized the implementation of a two-state solution and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. He also lauded Qatar's pioneering efforts in mediation, as well as the humanitarian and political contributions of the UAE, Oman, and Kuwait in supporting Palestinians across various platforms. Al-Budaiwi noted the continued enhancement of GCC strategic partnerships, citing numerous joint ministerial meetings held in 2024. He highlighted advancements in free trade agreements and preparations for upcoming strategic summits with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Central Asian countries. These efforts are supported by 17 action plans, 29 international partnerships, and 35 memorandums of understanding spanning diverse fields. On military cooperation, Al-Budaiwi emphasized the GCC's progress through key committee meetings and joint exercises, with anticipation for the 2026 Joint Peninsula Shield exercise in the UAE. In security, he announced the adoption of a unified strategy to combat drug trafficking, the near completion of linking traffic violation systems, and new initiatives targeting money laundering and terrorism. Economically, he pointed to the adoption of 27 policy documents addressing human, environmental, and economic issues, including education, health, trade, and cybersecurity. Al-Budaiwi concluded by reaffirming the GCC's commitment to its vision, pledging to uphold its responsibilities and continue fostering regional development and cooperation. — KUNA
