The crucial role of the GCC in protecting the security of its member states and the strength of its leadership and people's unity was lauded as the bloc marks the anniversary of its establishment tomorrow (May 25).

Saudi Ambassador Dr Abdulla bin Abdulmalek Al Sheikh stressed the GCC has helped its members to defend their interests and bolster political, economic and security relations.

In a statement to BNA, he said that the establishment of the GCC emanated 33 years ago from a far-sighted and strategic vision for the Gulf countries to stand united in regional and international arenas in defending their vital interests and championing Arab and Islamic causes, particularly the Palestinian issue.

He commended the string of landmark achievements of the GCC since its inception, citing the freedom of movement for its nationals using identity cards, the establishment of the customs union, the expansion of economic co-operation and the founding of the Peninsula Shield Forces in particular.

He pointed out cherished aspirations - stressing in this regard the call of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdulla bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud - to move from the stage of GCC co-operation to that of full-fledged union so as to gain more leverage and ward off future challenges.

He paid tribute to His Majesty King Hamad and other GCC leaders who backed the call of the Saudi monarch to develop the council, , reported the Gulf Daily News, our sister publication.

UAE Ambassador to Bahrain Mohammed Sultan Al Suwaidi extended congratulations to all GCC leaders, wishing member countries and the Arabian Gulf region further progress and prosperity as well as security and stability.

He hailed the landmark march of the six-member bloc, which yielded remarkable achievements in all fields.

He paid tribute to late UAE President Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who chaired the historic two-day summit (May 25-26) during which Gulf leaders rallied to sign the unified economic agreement, thus signaling the birth of the GCC on May 25, 1981.

Kuwaiti Ambassador and Dean of Diplomatic Corps in Bahrain Shaikh Azzam Mubarak Al-Sabah said the GCC has developed into a key regional player with much leverage to reckon with in the international community.

Lauding the GCc leaders, Bahrain parliament speaker Dr Khalifa Al Dhahrani said GCC citizens are looking forward to moving from the "co-operation" stage to "union", being an important strategy for the future of the region.

The legislative councils of GCC states are looking forward to the implementation of a proposal in this regard submitted by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud at the 14th GCC Summit, he said.-TradeArabia News Service