Latest news with #Gulf-USSummit
Qatar Tribune
19-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Shura Council commends Amir's participation in Gulf-US Summit, reviews transport ministry's strategy
DOHA: The Shura Council has held its regular weekly session at the Tamim bin Hamad Hall at the Council's headquarters, chaired by Speaker of the Council HEHassan bin Abdullah Al Ghanim. At the beginning of the session, the Council praised the participation of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in the Gulf-US Summit held in Riyadh last Wednesday, and the meeting that took place between His Highness and his brother, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Council affirmed that this participation and the meeting embody the State of Qatar's keenness to consolidate joint Gulf action, enhance bilateral cooperation with the Kingdom, and strengthen the strategic partnership with the United States, which contributes to the security and stability of the region. The Council also welcomed the official visit of the US President to Doha, noting its importance in strengthening bilateral relations and developing cooperation in the fields of defense, economy and energy, and joint coordination on regional and international issues. In the same context, the Council commended the participation of His Highness the amir in the Arab Summit held in Baghdad, considering it a reflection of Qatar's unwavering commitment to supporting Palestinian rights and strengthening joint Arab action in facing regional challenges. Secretary-General of the Shura Council HE Nayef bin Mohammed Al Mahmoud,then read the agenda of the session, and the Council approved the minutes of its previous meeting. At the invitation of the Speaker of the Council, Minister of Transport HESheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Thani, and a number of specialists from the Ministry attended the session to present the most prominent aspects of the Ministry of Transport's general strategy 2025-2030, and its efforts to develop a sustainable, smart, and safe transportation system, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. The Speaker of the Shura Council and the members welcomed the Minister of Transport and his accompanying delegation, praising the Ministry's efforts to modernize the transport sector's infrastructure, enhance the efficiency of logistics services, and develop legislation and policies that support digital transformation in the field of transportation. In this context, the Speaker of the Council, emphasized the vital role played by the Ministry of Transport in regulating and developing various transport sectors. He pointed out that the new strategy represents a fundamental pillar in promoting environmental sustainability, improving the quality of life, and achieving integration between various modes of transport, in line with the country's aspirations to build a diversified and advanced economy. For his part, the Minister of Transport reviewed the Ministry of Transport's strategy for the year (2025-2030), explaining that the strategy focuses on promoting economic growth and leveraging the country's advanced infrastructure to provide the best land, sea, and air transport services to citizens and residents. It also aims to develop national and local skills and expertise with the aim of sustaining the development of transport networks and ensuring their ability to withstand growth, meeting urban development, and harnessing technology and innovation to increase efficiency and safety in accordance with the best applicable standards. He pointed out that the Ministry's strategy includes developing land transport, maritime transport, and support services, stressing the Ministry's commitment to advancing these sectors to contribute to supporting vital sectors and enabling them to perform their duties, and implementing initiatives and projects stemming from the Ministry's vision for an integrated, safe, flexible, and sustainable transportation system. The strategy also aims to lead the sector's development towards high logistical efficiency that supports the pillars of the Qatar National Vision, particularly in the areas of economic growth, enhancing customer access to services, sustainability, and increasing network capacity, in addition to developing national competencies working in the sector. In a related context, he indicated the Ministry's keenness to keep pace with technological developments and benefit from them in the land transport sector, as part of its efforts to achieve digital transformation. He explained that the Ministry is working to modernize the technological infrastructure, adopt smart transportation systems, and use artificial intelligence applications to develop the transport and communications sector, achieving higher operational efficiency and enhancing economic and environmental aspects. This is achieved by setting precise standards and requirements for monitoring the operational performance of transport networks, which contributes to improving system efficiency, providing better services, and reducing operating costs. Regarding the maritime transport sector, he indicated that the Ministry is responsible for regulating maritime navigation affairs, developing legislation related to ship safety, and registering seafarers, in addition to modernizing port infrastructure and expanding their operational capabilities, thus enhancing Qatar's role as a regional logistics and trade hub. Regarding the air transport sector, the Minister's presentation highlighted plans to develop Hamad International Airport, expand international partnerships in the aviation sector, and improve the quality of services provided to passengers, thus strengthening Qatar's position as a global hub in the field of air transport. In the same context, he pointed to the efforts made by the Ministry to monitor companies and operators of transportation services to ensure their compliance with technical and environmental standards and specifications, stressing the Ministry's commitment to fostering a fair competitive environment and providing safe, efficient, and reliable transportation services. The presentation also addressed the Ministry's contribution to supporting environmental sustainability by adopting green policies in the transportation sector, encouraging the transition to electric buses, and expanding the dedicated infrastructure for them, in line with the State's commitments to reducing carbon emissions. During their interventions, the members of the Shura Council praised the presentation given by the Minister, stressing the importance of accelerating the pace of project implementation and working to address the challenges facing public transport, especially in external areas, in addition to improving connectivity between different modes of transport. The members also raised several observations related to the need to strengthen oversight of private transport companies, regulate prices, and ensure quality of service. They also highlighted the need to develop inland maritime transport services and improve ship registration and seafarer licensing mechanisms. The interventions focused on the importance of developing all transport services in an integrated digital manner, which facilitates procedures, saves time for investors and companies, and enhances the efficiency of government services. During their interventions, the Council members also addressed a number of issues related to the public transport sector, stressing the importance of promoting a culture of using buses and metro, and reviewing the prices of taxi services (Karwa) to ensure they are compatible with the level of service provided. The members pointed out the need to consider exempting some groups, such as people with disabilities, the elderly, and retirees, from transport fees. They called for a well-thought-out expansion of infrastructure projects, including metro and tram networks, in line with the nature of each area and its urban readiness. In response to the comments, the Minister of Transport praised the Council members' contributions, stressing that the Ministry is taking all comments into consideration and that the coming period will witness the implementation of qualitative projects focused on improving the quality of services, promoting sustainable transportation, and expanding partnerships with the private sector. At the conclusion of the session, the Speaker of the Shura Council, on his own behalf and on behalf of the Council members, expressed his deep thanks and appreciation to the Minister of Transport and the accompanying delegation, appreciating their efforts in implementing the Ministry's strategy. He also emphasized the Council's commitment to following up on the implementation of development plans that enhance community well-being and improve the quality of life in the country, in line with the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030.
Gulf Today
15-05-2025
- Politics
- Gulf Today
President, Saudi minister discuss Mideast situation
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Wednesday received Prince Khalid Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of Defence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi. During the meeting, Prince Khalid conveyed the greetings of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, along with their best wishes for the continued progress and prosperity of the UAE. In turn, Sheikh Mohamed conveyed his greetings to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince and expressed his sincere wishes for the Kingdom's continued growth, prosperity, and wellbeing under the leadership of King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The two sides discussed the close fraternal ties between their countries and explored ways to enhance cooperation and coordination in areas that serve their mutual interests and support the aspirations of their peoples for further development and prosperity. They also exchanged views on regional and international developments, particularly the situation in the Middle East, and reviewed ongoing efforts to preserve regional security and stability in the interest of all its peoples. Earlier in the day, on behalf of Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed, His Highness Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, led the UAE delegation to the Gulf-US Summit held on Wednesday in Riyadh. Sheikh Khaled has participated in the meeting, which was attended by the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Donald Trump, President of the United States of America, to discuss ways to further strengthen friendship and cooperation between the GCC and the US. Sheikh Khaled extended his sincere appreciation to King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, for hosting the summit, which serves as a valuable opportunity to further strengthen the deep-rooted bonds of friendship and historic cooperation between the GCC and the US. He reaffirmed the importance of the strategic partnership between the GCC and the US, enabling both sides to advance toward broader horizons of cooperation in a way that fulfils the aspirations and shared interests of their people. Sheikh Khaled also expressed his full confidence that the summit would further strengthen the existing strategic partnership and drive continued growth and progress across key sectors. He underscored the importance of enhancing political, economic and security coordination between the GCC and the US to further build a prosperous future for the people of the region. Sheikh Khaled emphasised that advancing regional and global peace and stability requires effective collaboration and joint action, particularly in light of current global and regional challenges. Sheikh Khaled highlighted the pivotal role of the US in further promoting regional security and stability, noting that the summit reinforces the longstanding and historic partnership between the two sides, as well as their shared commitment to promoting peace and prosperity. Sheikh Khaled also commended the efforts of President Donald Trump's administration in mediating a ceasefire deal between India and Pakistan, reaffirming the importance of dialogue as the only viable path to resolving disputes and strengthening relations for the benefit of both nations and the broader South Asian region. Sheikh Khaled praised ongoing initiatives aimed at reaching sustainable, peaceful solutions to various regional and international issues. In this context, Sheikh Khaled expressed optimism about recent rounds of diplomatic dialogue between the United States and Iran, and reaffirmed the UAE's support for efforts to de-escalate tensions and promote regional stability and prosperity. Sheikh Khaled reiterated the UAE's commitment to constructive cooperation with President Trump's administration. Sheikh Khaled also reaffirmed the UAE's steadfast commitment to dialogue and diplomacy, a principle embodied by the signing of the Abraham Accords in 2020, championed by President Trump. In this context, Sheikh Khaled underlined the importance of coordinated efforts to reach a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians, and achieve a just and comprehensive settlement that guarantees the rights of the Palestinian people, including the establishment of an independent Palestinian state within 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. WAM
Observer
14-05-2025
- Politics
- Observer
Gulf-US relations long-term and strategic
RIYADH: On behalf of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, HH Sayyid Asaad bin Tarik al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs, Personal Representative of His Majesty the Sultan, headed the Sultanate of Oman's delegation at the Gulf-US Summit held in Riyadh on Wednesday. In his speech during the summit, HH Sayyid Asaad conveyed the greetings of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and his best wishes for the success of the meeting. The speech reads as follows: "I am honoured to represent His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, Sultan of Oman, at this important Gulf-US summit. I am pleased to convey to you all His Majesty's greetings and his best wishes for the success of this meeting. We hereby express our deep thanks and gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz al Saud, and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for their kind invitation to this summit. We would also like to express our thanks and appreciation to the United States of America for its ardent and constructive partnership. We would like to extend our gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its hospitality and warm welcome. We meet here today at a historical moment, one that we hope it will help shape a better future for the Middle East and chart out a path of stability, prosperity and goodness for all. The Gulf-US relations are long-term and strategic that aim at establishing the foundations of security, stability and prosperity. This partnership that binds us takes shape in our shared commitment to achieve integration and reciprocity in political, economic, technological and defence interests, besides cooperating to resolve regional and international crises and addressing challenges. In this context, we would like to express our profound concern about the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, the outcome of decades of illegal Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. This ongoing injustice, coupled with the international community's inability to achieve a just peace, is at the heart of many regional challenges. Yet, a glimmer of hope still exists. HH Sayyid Asaad bin Tarik al Said with US President Donald Trump at the Gulf-US Summit in Riyadh on Wednesday. PEACE AND STABILITY We have witnessed historic steps being made towards peace and stability. We would like to express our appreciation for President Donald Trump's constructive role in ending the conflict with Yemen and restoring safe navigation in the Red Sea. We hope that this achievement will pave the way for further success in the Yemeni issue, leading to a lasting peace and prosperity for this age-old Arab country. It is encouraging to observe the realism and mutual respect that mark the ongoing dialogue between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran about the non-proliferation of nuclear arms. These efforts inspire confidence in the possibility of reaching a practical and sustainable agreement between the two sides, motivating us all to cooperate collectively to address other issues in the region. The Trump administration's pursuit of a policy of strategic diplomacy – which favours dialogue and deal-making over escalation and confrontation – represents an exemplary approach that is highly welcomed by us. By engaging all parties and, by challenging outdated theories, the United States has opened a practical path for real positive change. LASTING SECURITY We hereby reaffirm that it is impossible to achieve comprehensive peace, lasting security and the prosperity sought by all except through the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, enabling both Palestinians and Israelis to live in dignity, exercise sovereignty over their respective lands and build prosperous and dignified nations. Therefore, we look forward to the Trump administration's drive to resolve this long-standing conflict that weighed heavily our region for a long time.' Meanwhile, Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, also delivered a speech at the opening of the summit saying that this summit is in pursuance of the historical relationship and strategic partnership between the GCC states and the United States of America. He pointed out that this relationship continued to grow and develop over the past decades and it has become a model for joint cooperation. This, he added, reflects joint commitment to collective action to consolidate relations, expand and develop strategic partnerships in order to meet the common aspirations. Prince Mohammed said that the GCC states share the United States' belief in the importance of economic partnership and trade cooperation. He described the United States as a major trade and investment partner, as the volume of trade exchange between the two sides stood at about $120 billion in 2024. "The future we aspire to establish through the Sustainable Development Goals requires a stable and secure environment. We are aware of the magnitude of the challenge facing our region. With Your Excellency, Mr President, and, in cooperation with our brethren in the GCC states, we seek to de-escalate the confrontation in the region, end the war in Gaza and find a lasting and comprehensive settlement to the Palestinian cause in accordance with the Arab Peace Initiative and relevant international resolutions in a manner that achieves security and safety for the peoples of the region,' said Prince Mohammed. HH Sayyid Asaad bin Tarik al Said heading the Sultanate of Oman's delegation at the Gulf-US Summit in Riyadh on Wednesday. EFFECTIVE ROLE In his speech, US President Donald Trump said that the GCC states are among the most stable and prosperous nations and that the entire world is looking out for opportunities available in these countries, lauding their effective role in halting the escalation in Gaza and commending their endeavours to enhance prospects for peace in the region. In his speech, Shaikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al Jaber al Sabah, Emir of the State of Kuwait, commended the Sultanate of Oman's diplomatic efforts that gave rise to a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Yemen. He pointed out that this step will contribute to ensuring freedom of navigation and the smooth flow of international commercial shipping. Shaikh Mishal added, 'The GCC states believe that regional stability is a shared responsibility. Partnership with the United States represents a cornerstone in this process. We hope that this summit will be a step forward in building a more stable, balanced and integrated regional system based on international law, mutual respect and shared interests.' Shaikh Mishal expressed the hope that the summit would provide a gateway for addressing the region's concerns and highlighting the need to reach a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian cause. He also hoped that the summit would bolster the international community's efforts to ensure security and stability in Syria, preserve the Arab republic's sovereignty and territorial integrity, end the suffering of its people and halt foreign interference in its affairs. SAFE ZONE In his speech, King Hamad bin Isa al Khalifa of the Kingdom of Bahrain expressed his aspiration for the realisation of further cooperation to establish a safe, stable and prosperous zone that comprises all countries of the region. King Hamad said that this wise political approach represents a unique opportunity to move towards achieving a just and lasting peace that guarantees the rights of the Palestinian people through a two-state solution, preserves regional security and stability and contributes to making the region free of weapons of mass destruction. In his speech, Jassim Mohammed al Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), said the Gulf-US partnership - based on solid grounds, supported by figures and facts - paves the way for a future phase of close cooperation in all areas of common interest. Al Budaiwi noted that the GCC states continue to lead in traditional energy markets and are moving forward with partnerships with the United States in the field of clean energy. He expressed the GCC's hope for the success of international efforts to achieve a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and establish an environment that ensures security and stability for the Palestinian people. The summit dealt with means of consolidating the strategic partnership and economic investment between the GCC states and the United States, notably in the fields of technology and artificial intelligence (AI). It also covered current regional and international issues of significance to security and stability in the region. - ONA
Kuwait Times
14-05-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Amir calls for more GCC-US investments
Kuwait leader thanks Saudi leaders, commends Kingdom's pivotal role RIYADH: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah participated in the Gulf-US Summit held on Wednesday in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, alongside leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), US President Donald Trump and GCC Secretary General Jasem Al-Budaiwi. The high-level summit addressed regional and international developments, underscoring joint efforts to bolster security and stability, advance sustainable development and further reinforce the strategic partnership between the GCC and the United States. In his address to the summit, His Highness the Amir expressed his deep satisfaction with the convening of the gathering, extending his appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammad Bin Salman Al-Saud for the warm hospitality and exceptional organization of the event. His Highness emphasized Kuwait's firm commitment to strengthening cooperation with the United States, particularly in the economic sphere. He expressed hope that the summit would serve as a pivotal platform to address pressing regional issues and proposed the establishment of a Gulf-American forum for cultural and educational dialogue. Such an initiative, he said, would support joint research, empower youth and promote the values of tolerance, openness and mutual understanding. His Highness also commended the GCC states' support for Kuwait's chairmanship of the Council, noting their unified stance in enhancing Gulf solidarity and deepening the strategic alliance with the United States. 'I extend sincere thanks to President Donald Trump for his continued commitment to engaging with GCC leaders in support of our shared vision for peace, security and prosperity,' he said. Recalling the US-led coalition's historic role in liberating Kuwait in 1990, His Highness affirmed that the enduring partnership between the GCC and the US has evolved into a comprehensive alliance spanning security, economic and development fields. Highlighting investment as a cornerstone of the GCC-US relationship, His Highness called for joint initiatives in smart infrastructure, innovation, entrepreneurship and support for small and medium enterprises. He voiced optimism for expanding Kuwait's investment cooperation with the United States as a key strategic partner. Against the backdrop of ongoing international challenges, His Highness reaffirmed the GCC's united position in safeguarding the region's security and sovereignty, stressing the importance of collective efforts to meet the aspirations of the peoples of the region. On the humanitarian front, His Highness underscored the need for coordinated Gulf-US development aid to ensure sustainable relief for conflict-stricken communities. He reiterated Kuwait's unwavering commitment to humanitarian action and international cooperation. Turning to regional issues, His Highness voiced hope that the summit would mark a new chapter in addressing Middle East challenges, including the Palestinian cause. He reiterated Kuwait's support for a just and comprehensive solution based on international legitimacy and the Arab Peace Initiative, aiming to establish an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. On Syria, His Highness called for intensified international efforts to uphold the country's unity, sovereignty, and stability. He welcomed the recent decision by President Trump to lift sanctions on Syria as a positive step. He also commended Oman's mediation in securing a ceasefire in Yemen, noting its significance for ensuring maritime security. Addressing broader global conflicts, His Highness the Amir praised US diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the Russia-Ukraine war and reducing tensions between India and Pakistan. He reaffirmed the GCC's belief in shared responsibility for regional stability, describing the US-Gulf partnership as a vital pillar of that objective. 'We look forward to this summit being a step toward building a more stable, balanced, and integrated regional order based on international law, mutual respect, and shared interests,' His Highness said in conclusion, expressing gratitude to Saudi Arabia and President Trump for their key roles in the summit's success. Following the summit, His Highness the Amir sent a cable of thanks to King Salman, commending the Kingdom's pivotal regional and international role and the deep-rooted relations between the two nations. He also sent a similar message to Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman, lauding Saudi Arabia's efforts in hosting the event and expressing hope that the summit's outcomes would advance mutual cooperation. Upon his departure, His Highness the Amir and the accompanying delegation were seen off in Riyadh with official honors and were received upon arrival in Kuwait by His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Acting Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, and senior officials. His Highness was accompanied by Minister of Defense and Acting Minister of Interior Sheikh Abdullah Ali Al-Sabah, Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullah Al-Yahya and senior members of the official delegation. — KUNA
Shafaq News
14-05-2025
- Politics
- Shafaq News
Kuwaiti Emir to Trump: US role against Iraqi invasion unforgettable
Shafaq News/ On Wednesday, Kuwaiti Emir Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah lauded 'longstanding US support' for his country, notably during the 1990 Iraqi invasion, as Gulf and American leaders convened in Riyadh to address key regional issues. Speaking at the Gulf-US Summit in the Saudi capital, the Emir addressed US President Donald Trump directly, 'We will not forget your stance.' Al-Sabah reaffirmed Kuwait's support for international efforts to safeguard Syria's security and stability, calling for an end to foreign interference in the country's internal affairs. He welcomed Trump's decision to lift sanctions on Syria, describing it as a step toward easing humanitarian conditions. In addition, the Kuwaiti leader proposed establishing a Gulf-American forum for cultural and educational dialogue, noting that the initiative would enhance scientific exchange programs between the United States and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states. Al-Sabah hoped that the summit would mark the beginning of a new chapter for the Middle East, stressing the importance of reviving the Arab Peace Initiative and reaffirming the necessity of establishing a Palestinian state. The summit, hosted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, focuses on a range of geopolitical developments. The high-level gathering followed a virtual quadrilateral meeting involving Trump, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, and the Saudi Crown Prince.
