The GCC has expressed its support for all efforts to achieve an inclusive political transition that meets the aspirations of the Syrian people for stability and development.
It also emphasised the need for economic empowerment of Syria and urged the lifting of international sanctions on the war-torn country.
“The security and stability of Syria are essential pillars of regional security,” said a final statement following the extraordinary Ministerial Council meeting held in Kuwait.
Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif Al Zayani, other GCC foreign ministers and GCC secretary general Jasim Al Budaiwi took part in the meeting, which discussed the latest developments in Syria, Gaza and Lebanon.
The council highlighted the importance of respecting Syria’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. It also stressed the need to combat terrorism, chaos and extremism, while promoting respect for diversity.
The GCC called on all partners, nations and organisations to provide support to the Syrian people, reaffirming its commitment to continue providing humanitarian aid.
The council welcomed steps aimed at protecting civilians, halting bloodshed, achieving national reconciliation, and preserving Syrian state institutions and resources.
It also welcomed the decision to dissolve militias and armed factions, advocating for the exclusive possession of arms by the Syrian state as a cornerstone for restoring security and stability.
The Ministerial Council praised a call by United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres for the creation of a UN mission to support and oversee the transitional process in Syria, emphasising the importance of adhering to the principles of the UN Charter, including state sovereignty, non-interference in domestic affairs, good neighbourliness and the peaceful settlement of disputes, in order to preserve regional and international peace and security.
The GCC condemned repeated Israeli attacks on Syrian territory, including the occupation of the buffer zone along the Syrian border, describing them as flagrant violations of Syria’s sovereignty and the 1974 disengagement agreement. The council called on the international community to assume its responsibilities in halting these attacks and demanded Israel’s withdrawal from all occupied Syrian territories.
Regarding the situation in Gaza, the GCC reiterated its unwavering support for the Palestinian people and their legitimate rights.
The council expressed hope for the success of mediation efforts by Qatar, Egypt and the US to secure the release of hostages and detainees.
It also called for an immediate, comprehensive and lasting ceasefire, the lifting of the blockade on Gaza, unconditional opening of all crossings, and the delivery of humanitarian aid and medical supplies to meet the basic needs of Gaza’s population.
Addressing Lebanon, the ministerial council reaffirmed its unwavering support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, security, stability and territorial integrity.
It urged comprehensive political and economic reforms to help Lebanon overcome its ongoing crises and to prevent it from becoming a hub for terrorism, drug trafficking, and other destabilising activities.
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