The GCC will continue to build on its achievements with a shared vision and unified policies, His Majesty King Hamad said, chairing the 46th session of the GCC Summit at Sakhir Palace on Wednesday.

The GCC has been able, through dedicated work, to build a comprehensive development model that combines global competitiveness with security to ensure the highest levels of stability and prosperity, he said as he addressed the GCC leaders and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

GCC leaders present at the summit were Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said of Oman; the Amir of Kuwait Shaikh Meshal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah; Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, UAE Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister Shaikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan; and Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani.

Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni attended as the summit’s Guest of Honour.

GCC Secretary General Jasem Mohammed Al Budaiwi delivered the Sakhir Declaration.

Delivering his address, His Majesty said: “On this occasion, we take pride in the progress made across areas of joint co-operation, particularly those associated with Gulf citizenship and economic unity.

“We look forward to completing the GCC customs union and the GCC common market, and to expanding our partnerships in food and water security, the digital economy, renewable energy, and other vital sectors.”

His Majesty said: "As we reflect on the journey of this proud Gulf institution, established by the founding fathers with dedication and affection, we find a clear confirmation of the soundness of its approach towards greater integration, that is aligned with its strategic importance and unity, and which demonstrates its status as an active and influential effective force in regional and international politics, as stipulated in the charter of this Council.

"Practical experience has proven the truth of this reality.  We have been able, with the grace of Allah and through the dedicated work of the council, to build a comprehensive development model that combines global competitiveness with security the highest levels of stability and prosperity."

It would not have been possible to deliver those achievements without the shared vision and unified policies that prioritised the consolidation of Gulf security, the protection of national sovereignty, respect for the principles of good neighbourliness, and non-interference in the internal affairs of states – all ground in the golden rule that the security, stability, and prosperity of GCC states are inseparable, His Majesty King Hamad said.

"On this occasion, we take pride in the progress made across areas of joint cooperation, particularly those associated with Gulf citizenship and economic unity.  We look forward to completing the GCC customs union and the GCC common market, and to expanding our partnerships in food and water security, the digital economy, renewable energy, and other vital sectors."

His Majesty also highlighted that in light of the rapid developments witnessed by our region, "it is increasingly important that we maintain our collective efforts with determination, wisdom, and openness to address regional issues – foremost  among of which is the Palestinian cause.  This is to be achieved through dialogue and political and diplomatic options which strengthen stability, and which open firm prospects for the region’s security and sustainable development.

"We emphasise the importance of completing the implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan, which represents a positive step towards de-escalation and creating conditions necessary to accelerate the path towards a just and lasting peace- one that ensures the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with international legitimacy and the Arab Peace Initiative.

"Regarding the security of the Arabian Gulf and regional stability, we deem it necessary to protect maritime navigation and international trade from any threat, and to maintain a region free of weapons of mass destruction.  This is based on the GCC’s strategic approach to collective security and defence, and on cooperation with its network of alliances, in pursuit of consolidating the values of human fraternity and peaceful coexistence, thereby reinforcing a culture of peace and mutual respect among peoples.

"In conclusion, let us ensure that this council stands as a renewed pledge, to achieve a free and fair Gulf market; a soft power capable of safeguarding our identity, the unity of our societies, and a future where development is built upon knowledge, innovation, and dignity.  We pray to Allah the Almighty to grant us all success in achieving all that elevates our nations and serves the welfare of our peoples, in a world of greater justice, stability, and prosperity," His Majesty King Hamad said.