Doha: Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, emphasized the GCC member states' role as a steadfast partner in supporting peace and stability and ensuring global energy security. He highlighted the economic progress and diplomatic presence achieved by the GCC, which reflects an approach based on responsibility, partnership building, and striving for stability and prosperity for both the region and the world.
According to Qatar News Agency, Albudaiwi made these remarks during his address at the Gulf States Forum at the University of Utah in the United States. He noted that 45 years after its establishment, the GCC has become an influential regional organization, with integration and solidarity among its member states forming the foundation of its work.
Albudaiwi reiterated the GCC's unwavering stance on the Palestinian issue, focusing on providing relief to civilians, opposing forced displacement, and advocating for a just settlement based on the two-state solution. He also discussed energy security, highlighting the GCC states' ability to fulfill commitments amid challenging conditions and regional escalations, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz.
He condemned ongoing Iranian attacks on neighboring countries, emphasizing the need for the international community to restore stability and ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains open to international navigation in accordance with international law, the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and UN Security Council Resolution 2817.
The GCC Chief praised Gulf mediation efforts, notably by Qatar and Oman, in facilitating dialogue during confrontations between Iran and the United States. He stressed the importance of finding just solutions to security concerns to prevent further hardship in the region.
On the economic front, Albudaiwi stated that GCC countries are rapidly transforming by diversifying revenue sources and expanding finance, logistics, industry, tourism, and advanced technology sectors. The GCC economy, currently exceeding USD 2.4 trillion, is projected to reach approximately USD 6 trillion by 2050, with sovereign wealth funds managing assets nearing USD 5 trillion, underscoring their role in global economic growth.
Furthermore, the GCC Secretary General affirmed the potential of the GCC-US partnership in building a knowledge-based economy, particularly in AI research, medical sciences, and clean energy, with American universities like the University of Utah serving as crucial partners in talent development and scientific collaboration.