China and GCC member states today confirmed that the Middle East and the Arab Gulf region are occupying an important strategic position in the world map and that keeping peace and stability in this region is tantamount to the world peace and stability. The two sides also suggested the establishment of a free trade zone between the GCC and China, thanks to the two sides' strong economic capabilities. This came in a press statement at the end of the 3rd ministerial joint meeting for strategic dialogue between the GCC and China, held in China's capital of Beijing and co-chaired by Sheikh Sabah Khalid Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, First Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister of Kuwait, who is also current rotatory president of the GCC ministerial council, and China's foreign Minister Wang Yi. The GCC delegation, representing the six-nation group, was accompanied by the GCC Secretary General Dr. Abdullatif Al-Zayani. The two sides discussed relations between the GCC and China, ways of enhancing them in all fields and reviewed regional and international issues of mutual concern. They expressed satisfaction over the progress achieved as regards the relations between the GCC and China since the second round of the strategic dialogue between the two and reviewed the fruitful results reached through cooperation between the two sides in all fields. The two sides approved and signed a working plan for strategic dialogue, confirming the importance of enhancing dialogue and mutual confidence between the two sides in the political, economic, commercial, energy, protection of environment and climate change, culture, education, health, and sports. In this regard, the two sides also confirmed coordination between themselves in the international and regional affairs. The GCC side confirmed the important role of China towards the Middle East and Gulf issues, thanking China for the warm welcome and generous hospitality accorded to the GCC delegation. It was agreed to hold the next round of the ministerial meeting for strategic dialogue between China and GCC in Qatar in 2015. --SP 18:57 LOCAL TIME 15:57 GMT تغريد
