Kuwait City: The 45th Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit in Kuwait concluded with a final communique highlighting key areas of focus, including Libya, Morocco, Afghanistan, Somalia, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis. The Supreme Council reiterated its support for a Libyan-led political solution, called for the withdrawal of foreign forces, and backed UN efforts to achieve political consensus in Libya. It also welcomed the extension of the UN mission's mandate in Libya until January 2025 and urged the appointment of a new UN envoy. The Council commended efforts to resolve the Central Bank crisis in Libya and encouraged dialogue among Libyan parties. According to Kuwait News Agency, the Council underscored the importance of the strategic partnership with Morocco and reiterated its support for Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara. It praised the UN Security Council Resolution 2756 regarding the Moroccan Sahara. In Afghanistan, the Council emphasized restoring security and stability, ensuring women's righ ts, protecting minorities, and preventing terrorist activities. It commended Qatar's hosting of the third meeting of international envoys on Afghanistan. The GCC reaffirmed support for Somalia's security and stability, welcomed the transformation of the UN mission in Somalia, and condemned terrorist acts targeting the country. The Council emphasized respect for Somalia's sovereignty and highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to peace in alignment with Somali government priorities. On the Russia-Ukraine crisis, the GCC stressed principles of international law, supporting mediation and regional efforts for a political resolution. The Council praised successful mediation efforts by the UAE and Saudi Arabia in prisoner exchanges and humanitarian aid. It also encouraged continued support for grain exports to enhance food security. The GCC commended the outcomes of strategic dialogues and summits with various international partners, including the European Union, and called for strengthened economic re lations. It welcomed the conclusion of free trade negotiations with South Korea and New Zealand and the initiation of talks with Turkey. The summit concluded with the renewal of Jassem Al-Budaiwi's mandate as Secretary-General for an additional term and looked forward to the UAE assuming the presidency of the next session, with plans for the 46th summit in Abu Dhabi.
