GCC Supreme Council Session Concludes Successfully

GULF SUMMIT 2025:The Supreme Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) held its 46th session in Bahrain today, under the chairmanship of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The session brought together leaders from GCC states, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait, as well as the Secretary General of the GCC.

At the conclusion of the session, the Supreme Council issued a statement highlighting key achievements and priorities:

• The Council thanked Kuwait for its leadership during the 45th session and congratulated Bahrain for taking over the presidency for the 46th session.

• Bahrain’s Government Action Programme for 2026 was welcomed, with ambitious initiatives aimed at enhancing cooperation, integration, and joint Gulf action. Member states will study the proposals and provide feedback.

• The Supreme Council reaffirmed that GCC security is indivisible, emphasizing that any aggression against one member state is considered an aggression against all.

• Progress on implementing the vision of Saudi Arabia’s Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman, was reviewed, including economic unity, joint defence, and coordinated international positions. The Council tasked GCC institutions with completing remaining steps according to a clear timetable.

• Efforts to transition from cooperation to union among GCC states will continue, aiming for stronger integration across all sectors.

• Economic unity milestones were highlighted, including the gradual launch of the Customs Data Exchange Platform in the second half of 2026 and measures to enhance cross-border trade, professional recognition, and industrial integration. The “Made in the Gulf” Forum and Exhibition is planned for October 2026.

• The Council approved the establishment of the GCC Civil Aviation Authority, the GCC Railway Project’s General Agreement, and unified rules for jointly owned real estate.

• Judicial, legal, and legislative cooperation, as well as parliamentary coordination across the GCC, were praised.

• Efforts in Islamic affairs, family values, governance, transparency, anti-corruption measures, human rights, and combating human trafficking were commended.

• The Council addressed emerging issues such as disaster management, artificial intelligence regulation, and service integration.

• On environment and energy, the Council emphasized climate action, renewable energy, regional cooperation under the Middle East Green Initiative, and innovation to manage emissions while ensuring global energy stability.

The Supreme Council concluded by reiterating its commitment to GCC unity, joint progress, and strengthening the region’s stability and development.