24-05-2025
Oman supports GCC as bloc marks 44th anniversary
MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman, alongside the sisterly member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), are marking the 44th anniversary of the founding of the GCC block on May 25, 1981.
The GCC states are celebrating the outset of integration between its six member states at various levels, promoting the interests of their peoples and fulfilling their aspirations for stability, prosperity, development and growth.
His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik affirmed, in his Royal speech on the day he assumed power on January 11, 2020, his continued support for the GCC, saying: 'We will continue, along with our brothers, the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states, to contribute to advancing the path of cooperation among our countries to fulfil the aspirations of our peoples and promote the GCC's achievements.' The Sultanate of Oman continues its unwavering commitment to the GCC's principles and objectives, contributing to the formulation of its decisions and initiatives, supporting economic integration mechanisms, coordinating political positions and enhancing cultural and social cooperation. This stems from its belief that the GGC's cohesion is the cornerstone of the region's resilience in the face of rapid global transformations.
In this regard, Shaikh Ahmed bin Hashil al Maskari, Head of the GCC and Regional Neighbourhood Department at the Foreign Ministry, said: 'The establishment of the GCC back in 1981 marked a historic milestone in joint Arab action and a fundamental building block for an effective and solid regional cooperation system. Since its inception, the GCC has made significant strides in consolidating the foundations of integration and coordination among its member states in various fields based on historical ties and the common interests of its peoples.' Al Maskari added that the GCC's most notable political achievements include its ability to unify positions in regional and international forums and its role in promoting peace and stability in the region. On the economic front, the Customs Union and the GCC Common Market, in addition to the electricity grid and transportation projects, are all fruits of institutional cooperation.
He stated that despite all these achievements, the GCC faced some challenges including divergent political visions, economic challenges and rapid regional transformations. However, the dialogue and consultation mechanisms established by the GCC helped overcome many obstacles with a spirit of responsibility and wisdom.
The GCC's founding ambitions were and will always remain great and many of them have been achieved. However, there are still areas requiring greater momentum particularly in the economic, social and legislative fields, Al Maskari said, adding that the GCC remains a vibrant and evolving framework that reflects the political will of its member states towards building and enhancing interconnectedness and integration across various fields.
Regarding the role of the GCC in promoting stability in the Gulf region and the Middle East in general, Al Maskari emphasised that the GCC plays a pivotal role in enhancing collective security, confronting sources of threat and promoting peaceful solutions to regional crises. He stressed the importance of strengthening its strategic partnerships with international powers and regional actors to ensure a balanced approach to protect the security and stability of the Gulf and the whole region.
The GCC applies a responsible policy based on respect for the principles of international law and non-interference in the internal affairs of states. The GCC also seeks to contribute effectively to conflict resolution through mediation and preventive diplomacy. Examples of this include its constant emphasis on the centrality of the Palestinian cause and its rejection of all forms of escalation and foreign interference in the region.
Regarding the Sultanate of Oman's role in strengthening Gulf cooperation, particularly on issues of a conciliatory nature, Al Maskari said: 'The Sultanate of Oman has always adopted a foreign policy based on dialogue and balance; and has sincerely sought to bring viewpoints closer together and strengthen Gulf unity.' He emphasised that the Sultanate of Oman is committed to supporting the GCC's work at all stages and encouraging initiatives that contribute to strengthening joint Gulf action particularly on issues that require consensual solutions and well-thought-out understandings.
He explained that the GCC's future vision requires keeping pace with global transformations by modernising mechanisms, activating integration tools and promoting unified policies on strategic issues such as cybersecurity, climate change and sustainable development in addition to continue working towards an integrated economic union that achieves security and well-being for the peoples of the GCC countries.
His Excellency Shaikh Ahmed bin Hashil al Maskari, Head of the GCC and Regional Neighbourhood Department at the Foreign Ministry, affirmed that the Sultanate of Oman believes that the unity and integration of the Gulf community, based on a shared destiny and mutual respect, is the most important pillar for achieving security, stability and development in the region. This is something the Sultanate of Oman is keen to consolidate in cooperation with the other GCC member states, based on a comprehensive vision for a more prosperous and cohesive future for the GCC countries and their peoples. — ONA
