Intensify GCC security cooperation, solidarity: Bahrain

Agencies | Muscat                                                

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Interior Minister, HE General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, called on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to intensify security cooperation and solidarity in the midst of the current operations in Gaza and the delicate situation in the region.

HE Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah delivered a speech as he chaired Bahrain’s delegation at the meeting of the Interior Ministers of the GCC in Muscat yesterday.

“We should safeguard our unity, in the midst of the unfolding situation around us, and not allow attempts to cast doubt on our stances or disturb the security and stability of our nations to affect us,” the minister said.

“This affirms the significance of coordinating mutual support for civil protection purposes among the GCC countries, in which the regional situation, security developments and the GCC principles require promoting joint GCC security action.”

Recognising the regional situation and security developments, HE Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah presented a proposal for a joint action strategy to address the growing cases of illegal immigration and their connection to organised crime.

The proposal aims to establish unified legal procedures to deal with this phenomenon effectively. The ministers discussed topics aimed at strengthening joint GCC security cooperation. They were also informed about the recommendations of the specialised security committees.

They adopted the unified GCC tourist visa. They also endorsed a proposal to study the establishment of a joint GCC committee for law enforcement officials to combat corruption. They also agreed to complete the project to link traffic violations across GCC countries electronically. Winners of the Prince Nayef Award for Security Research were also honoured.