46th GCC Summit concludes with roadmap for deeper unity
Gulf leaders push for stronger integration, approve new economic and security measures, new aviation authority, and regional railway project; highlights economic unity, cross-border trade reforms, and anti-corruption efforts
Gulf leaders, in the final communiqué of the 46th GCC Summit held Wednesday in Bahrain, emphasized the need to strengthen cooperation across all sectors and address the challenges facing the region.
The Supreme Council reviewed the report on the vision of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, which calls for advancing joint Gulf action, deepening economic unity, enhancing security and defense systems, and coordinating positions on regional and international developments.
The Council instructed that efforts be intensified to implement the vision according to a clear timetable, and requested the GCC General Secretariat to submit a detailed progress report at the next summit.
The communiqué reaffirmed the leaders’ commitment to unity, cohesion, and greater integration across all fields, reflecting the aspirations of GCC citizens.
It also discussed ongoing negotiations regarding the late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud’s proposal to evolve the Cooperation Council into a federation.
On economic matters, the Council reviewed progress on the Gulf economic unity project and approved the phased launch of the customs data exchange platform in the second half of 2026. Ministerial committees were tasked with completing the remaining requirements of the Customs Union and submitting an executive plan with a detailed timetable.
Within the framework of the Gulf Common Market, leaders stressed the need to advance regulations governing cross-border trade in services, ensure periodic assessments of economic and social impacts, and establish mechanisms for mutual recognition of qualifications and licenses across member states.
The Council welcomed a proposal to host a “Made in the Gulf” forum and exhibition to showcase regional industrial capabilities and promote industrial integration.
The Supreme Council approved the establishment of the GCC Civil Aviation Authority, to be headquartered in the United Arab Emirates, and endorsed the general agreement linking GCC countries via a unified railway project.
It also adopted unified regulations for joint property ownership across member states. Leaders further praised the outcomes of the first Gulf Conference on the Future of Judicial and Legislative Cooperation, hosted in Kuwait, and commended the results of the 19th meeting of heads of Shura, Representative, and National Councils in GCC countries.
The communiqué also acknowledged member states’ achievements in Islamic affairs and endowments, and highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen governance, transparency, accountability, and anti-corruption measures.
The Council welcomed practical steps taken toward developing an integrated regional oversight and accountability system, underscoring its importance to collective Gulf progress.
— KUNA
