The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Jassem Al-Budaiwi, while praising the great achievements made by the Arab Gulf states over the past few years, said these achievements have added qualitative weight on the international scene.
He noted the Gulf economy is growing at the rate of an estimated six percent, but was quick to point out there are some discrepancies which hinder progress as the GCC countries march forward towards the path of economic integration, reports Al-Rai daily.
During the 21st Arab Media Forum in Dubai Al Budaiwi stressed that the GCC countries adopt a political approach and clear positions that have earned them a prestigious position on the international front.
He pointed out that the GCC states are striving to achieve economic integration between them keeping in mind the goal of establishing the customs union and activating the common market, while at the same time indicating that inter-Gulf coordination is at its highest levels at all political, security and military levels, but there is an urgent need to complete economic integration and towards this end the GCC states must show some flexibility in making some concessions in order to achieve major goals in the long term.
He pointed out that of special concern are some differences in viewpoints that hinder progress on this path, but said he is optimism in achieving this strategic goal.