MANAMA : Gulf leaders on Wednesday reaffirmed their commitment to deepening political, economic, and security integration across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), stressing that unity among member states remains essential to regional stability and global engagement.

In a final communiqué issued at the close of the 46th GCC Supreme Council Summit in Manama, leaders underscored the “profound historical and fraternal bonds” linking the six member states, rooted in shared religion, heritage, language and common destiny. The statement said the bloc would continue working toward greater cohesion and accelerate efforts to meet the aspirations of its citizens for enhanced stability, prosperity, and security.

Security and Sovereignty at the Forefront

The communiqué reiterated the GCC’s long-standing position on sovereignty, making clear that the security of the Gulf is “indivisible” and that any violation of a member state’s sovereignty constitutes a direct threat to all. The leaders rejected any form of interference in internal affairs or the use or threat of force against regional states.

They voiced satisfaction with what they described as “tangible achievements” in joint Gulf action, crediting a unified defense and security framework, balanced diplomacy, and economic cooperation. These advances, they said, reflect the political cohesion of the Council and its unified positions on key regional and international issues.

Middle East Peace and the Gaza Situation

The leaders renewed the GCC’s longstanding support for a comprehensive and lasting peace in the Middle East. They welcomed the outcomes of the recent Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit and urged full compliance with the ceasefire arrangement in Gaza to enable humanitarian relief and reconstruction.

The communiqué reiterated support for establishing an independent Palestinian state along the June 4, 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in line with the Arab Peace Initiative, the two-state solution, and relevant international resolutions. The statement said such a settlement is essential for fulfilling the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people and achieving regional peace.

Economic Integration, Digital Transformation and Investment

GCC leaders outlined an economic agenda focused on accelerating integration and strengthening competitiveness. They highlighted the need to complete the GCC Common Market and Customs Union and expand trade, tourism and cross-border investment.

Priority investment sectors reaffirmed by the bloc include infrastructure, transportation, energy, communications, water and food security—areas viewed as critical for long-term stability. The communiqué called for speeding up the integration of digital infrastructure, scaling up e-commerce, and developing unified Gulf systems for digital payments and cloud services.

The leaders said the GCC would continue advancing economic diversification through innovation, sustainability and new-economy sectors. They emphasized the need for joint strategies in technology, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, including efforts to counter cybercrime, exchange expertise, and build a secure digital environment. Empowering youth and women, and recognising the role of think tanks in policy planning, were also highlighted.

Climate Commitments and Environmental Goals

Reinforcing their environmental pledges, the GCC leaders committed to intensifying efforts to address climate change, reduce carbon emissions, promote clean energy, and preserve natural resources. These commitments align with the Gulf’s net-zero ambitions and broader sustainable development objectives.

Regional Cooperation and Strategic Alliances

The communiqué called for deeper cooperation with regional and international partners to protect energy security, maintain maritime stability, and counter extremism, terrorism and transnational crime. The leaders also voiced support for the Bahrain-based Combined Maritime Forces tasked with safeguarding key trade routes.

They reiterated backing for the creation of a Middle East free of weapons of mass destruction and urged efforts to curb arms races to strengthen regional stability.

Support for Bahrain and Italian Engagement

Leaders expressed full support for Bahrain as it prepares to represent the Arab Group as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, saying they were confident in Bahrain’s ability to advocate for Gulf and Arab priorities and contribute to global peace efforts.

The GCC also extended appreciation to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for participating in summit discussions. Both sides agreed to develop a joint action plan to elevate their relationship into a comprehensive strategic partnership—part of the GCC’s broader push to deepen international alliances.

Commitment to a Unified Future

The leaders concluded by pledging to strengthen institutional frameworks that enhance Gulf solidarity and strategic integration. These efforts, they said, aim to secure long-term prosperity and stability for GCC citizens and contribute to a more peaceful and equitable global order.

They reaffirmed their “unwavering dedication” to advancing a shared future built on cooperation, stability and mutual prosperity.

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