Kuwait City: The third ministerial meeting of the strategic dialogue between the GCC and Central Asian states is a significant step towards building a sustainable strategic partnership, stated Kuwait Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya, who also serves as the Chairman of the current session. Al-Yahya made these remarks during his opening speech at the meeting hosted by Kuwait.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the minister emphasized the importance of the gathering as a genuine opportunity to enhance bilateral cooperation between the GCC and Central Asian countries. Al-Yahya highlighted the shared political will to expand collaboration across various fields to achieve mutual strategic goals for a prosperous future.
Al-Yahya pointed out that the historical relations between these regions have developed considerably, becoming a model for cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, cultural exchange, and technological innovation. He stressed the necessity of addressing complex regional and international challenges through close coordination and effective cooperation on issues of mutual interest.
The minister also underscored the need to boost trade and investment exchanges between the GCC and Central Asian countries. He identified security and stability as fundamental pillars of the joint strategy, emphasizing the importance of enhancing security coordination, combating terrorism, and tackling cyber threats and organized crime to achieve regional and international security.
In his address, Minister Al-Yahya reaffirmed steadfast support for the Palestinian cause, urging the international community to take effective actions to alleviate humanitarian suffering in the occupied Palestinian territories. He called for unhindered access to humanitarian aid and mobilizing efforts to achieve a just solution consistent with UN resolutions, aiming for an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Al-Yahya noted positive developments in Syria amid ongoing efforts to enhance security and stability while preserving Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also expressed anticipation for the second summit between GCC and Central Asian leaders, scheduled for May 5, 2025, in Samarkand, marking an important milestone in strengthening the strategic partnership.