“Intensify efforts to confront terrorism”

Manama : The miserable situation in some Arab countries due to terrorism, domestic struggle and bloodshed, is an imperative result of the alliance of terrorism, sectarianism and flagrant interference, said the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

In his speech at the opening of the 37th Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit in Bahrain yesterday, King Salman called for GCC leaders and people to intensify their efforts and work together in dealing with the current highly complicated circumstances in Arab region.

“The current situation in the region requires all of us to work together and deal with them with unity and  determination so as to help boost the development and prosperity of our countries and people,” he said

King Salman further said that efforts were being exerted to end the struggle in Yemen, and is hopeful of achieving security and stability under the leadership of its legitimate government. This is also in line with the GCC initiative, outcomes of the national dialogue and UN Security Council resolution No. 2216, thanks to the endeavours offered by the UN special envoy to Yemen.

“As for the situation in Syria, we are all saddened to see what is happening there, including killings, displacement and suffering of the Syrian people,” King Salman said adding that the world community should intensify efforts to stop bloodshed and find a political solution guaranteeing security and stability as well as preserving the unity and integrity.

“Despite the important achievements attained by the GCC, we should gear forward to a better future that guarantees the aspirations of the GCC citizens towards more prosperity and dignified living that support the regional and international peace.”

King Salman also expressed his appreciation to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the government and people of  Bahrain for the warm hospitality and good reception. 

He also expressed satisfaction with the achievements attained by the competent agencies of the GCC council over the past year in accordance with mechanisms adopted by the council. 

“The establishment of the Economic and Development Affairs Commission which began its work recently to promote joint action in the economic and development fields aims to raise the level of cooperation and coordination,” he stated.