New york: The Kingdom of Bahrain delivered a statement on behalf of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, in its capacity as Chair of the 46th session of the Council, during the United Nations General Assembly session discussing the priorities of the UN Secretary-General for 2026. The statement reiterated the GCC's support for the Secretary-General's ongoing efforts to advance peace, strengthen multilateralism, and uphold shared humanitarian values.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the statement was delivered by Ambassador Nancy Abdullah Jamal, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the United Nations in New York. The statement expressed the GCC's appreciation for the leadership of Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres during this period, coinciding with the UN's 80th anniversary and amidst global challenges. It referenced the "Sakhir Declaration" issued at the 46th session of the GCC Supreme Council held in Bahrain in December 2025, where the GCC emphasized its commitment to deepening political, security, and economic partnerships internationally on the level of states, organizations, and economic blocs, including the United Nations.
The statement highlighted last year's adoption of the resolution entitled 'Cooperation between the United Nations and the Gulf Cooperation Council' by the UN General Assembly as an indicator of the growing partnership between the two parties. It added that this cooperation enhances the alignment of international and regional efforts to address shared challenges and promote peace, stability, and sustainable development.
Addressing regional issues, the statement reiterated the GCC's commitment to achieving a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. It welcomed the outcomes of the Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit and affirmed full support for efforts to ensure the full implementation of the ceasefire in Gaza. The statement further voiced support for initiatives aimed at establishing an independent and sovereign Palestinian state based on the 4 June 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with the two-state solution, the Arab Peace Initiative, and relevant international legitimacy resolutions. Additionally, the statement welcomed the adoption of the "New York Declaration".
On economic and developmental matters, the Ambassador said that the GCC welcomed the establishment of an independent scientific advisory body on artificial intelligence, emphasizing the importance of harnessing technology, AI, and cybersecurity responsibly for the benefit of humanity. She conveyed the GCC's eagerness to participate in the upcoming Annual Global Dialogue on AI Governance scheduled for this year.
Ambassador Jamal also praised the decision to hold the 2026 United Nations Water Conference in the United Arab Emirates, in partnership with the Republic of Senegal, describing it as an event for advancing water security and addressing climate change challenges.
Regarding UN reforms, the statement stressed the importance of an inclusive and transparent process led by member states that preserves the UN's character and role in promoting sustainable development, peace, and international security. It underscored the need to enhance the system's efficiency and effectiveness without compromising the mandates of its principal organs.
Ambassador Jamal also emphasized the GCC's position on intensifying international efforts through key UN milestones scheduled for 2026, to support the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and advance the collective humanitarian interest.