GCC Foreign Ministers meet in Kuwait; Al-Yahya reaffirms unity, addresses regional challenges

Foreign Minister and current Chairman of the Gulf Ministerial Council, Abdullah Al-Yahya, affirmed that the 165th session of the GCC Ministerial Council, hosted in Kuwait, reflects the depth of historical ties and the fraternal relations binding the member states.

He stressed that this unity enhances the Gulf countries’ ability to confront current and future challenges, while working together toward a shared destiny that protects common gains and fulfills the aspirations of their peoples.

In his opening remarks, Al-Yahya noted that the session comes at a crucial time, just ahead of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, offering an opportunity for GCC states to coordinate positions, unify efforts, and ensure an influential Gulf presence on the international stage.

He expressed hope that the UNGA would serve as a platform for constructive dialogue, universal values, and collective solutions to promote peace, security, and prosperity.

Al-Yahya drew attention to the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, approaching its second year. He condemned Israel’s continued violations of international law and humanitarian norms, emphasizing the urgent need for international action to stop attacks targeting civilians and vital infrastructure.

He called for full protection of civilians, unhindered humanitarian access, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, reports Al-Jarida daily.

He commended Saudi Arabia and France for jointly leading the international conference on the peaceful settlement of the Palestinian issue last July in New York, which yielded tangible steps toward a two-state solution.

He also welcomed the growing number of countries recognizing Palestine, urging more states to follow suit in supporting the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.

On Iraq, Al-Yahya reaffirmed Kuwait’s support for Iraq’s security, stability, and development, while underlining the need to correct unilateral decisions that have strained relations.

He highlighted the importance of respecting Kuwait’s sovereignty, particularly regarding the Khor Abdullah Agreement and the demarcation of maritime borders beyond Marker 162.

He stressed that the Dorra gas field and resources in the Divided Zone are jointly owned by Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, reaffirming that both nations alone hold the right to exploit them under international law and bilateral agreements.

Al-Yahya reiterated support for Syria’s sovereignty, unity, and reconstruction efforts, while condemning repeated Israeli incursions into Syrian territory. On Lebanon, he voiced support for President Joseph Aoun’s efforts to maintain stability and overcome challenges to meet the aspirations of the Lebanese people.

The Kuwaiti foreign minister highlighted the importance of strengthening partnerships beyond the region. He welcomed the joint GCC-Japan ministerial dialogue, recognizing Japan as a key partner, and looked forward to broadening cooperation in political, economic, and development fields.

He also expressed Kuwait’s readiness to host two major events — The GCC-EU Ministerial Meeting and Forum on Regional Security and Cooperation on October 5–6 and the GCC-EU Business Forum in November.

These high-level dialogues, he said, are strategic opportunities to expand cooperation with Europe, reinforce stability, and advance mutual interests.

Al-Yahya welcomed his Gulf counterparts to Kuwait, describing the council’s work as an extension of the “blessed journey of Gulf cooperation.”

He conveyed greetings from His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, along with their wishes for the council to achieve shared objectives that serve the people of the region.

He also thanked GCC leaders for their continued support of Kuwait’s presidency, underscoring that their efforts embody the shared commitment to Gulf unity, deeper integration, and protection of common achievements.

Al-Yahya expressed regret over the postponement of the second joint ministerial meeting with Ukraine due to ongoing circumstances there. He reaffirmed Kuwait’s support for a comprehensive political solution to the Ukrainian crisis based on international law, the UN Charter, and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.

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