UAE Advocates Enhanced GCC-US Collaboration for Stability

The United Arab Emirates has voiced its advocacy for deeper collaboration between Gulf states and the United States to enhance stability, protect maritime routes, and advance peace across the Middle Eastern landscape.

Lana Nusseibeh, Minister of State, represented H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the Joint Ministerial Meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the US.

This session was guided by Dr. Abdullatif Al Zayani, Bahrain's Foreign Minister and current GCC president, with Marco Rubio leading the US delegation.

Discussion on Regional Issues and Iran's Actions

During the discussions, the ministers evaluated regional developments, particularly highlighting Iran's aggressive activities against GCC members and the unlawful obstruction of the Strait of Hormuz.

The attendees welcomed a recent US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding, perceiving it as a pivotal initial move towards diminishing conflicts and fostering de-escalation in the area.

The meeting reiterated the US's enduring commitment to securing the Gulf nations, emphasizing the importance of the US-GCC Strategic Partnership and exploring methods to uplift stability in the region.

UAE Stresses Need for Gulf Engagement

Lana Nusseibeh emphasized the significance of ongoing dialogue between the US and Gulf partners during her address.

She stated, "Consultation, inclusion, and collaboration among Gulf nations are vital for achieving security solutions. Our region has faced the repercussions of Iran's aggressive conduct, and resilient security measures must consider the viewpoints of those most affected."

UAE Calls for Securing the Strait of Hormuz

Nusseibeh highlighted that international law, alongside free navigation, must be safeguarded, ensuring secure and open access to the Strait of Hormuz without economic pressures.

Actions that compromise maritime safety and disrupt global trade should be deemed acts of piracy, posing threats to regional stability and global energy security.

She urged the international community to prevent Iran from benefitting from its unlawful actions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Support for Lebanon and Syria

On the topic of Lebanon, Nusseibeh stressed the need to bolster the Lebanese Government, Armed Forces, and citizens in their quest for safety, stability, and growth.

Moreover, she pointed out the necessity for an inclusive political transition in Syria, promoting collaboration from international organizations and the private sector for reconstruction efforts, while also affirming the UAE's commitment to the Syrian people's aspirations for peace.

Reiterating Support for Two-State Solution

Addressing the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Nusseibeh called for the complete implementation of Security Council Resolution 2803, advocating for the Peace Board in Gaza.

She reaffirmed the UAE's consistent position that a credible political approach is critical to resolving the Palestinian-Israeli conflict through a two-state solution, enabling Palestinians to establish an independent state.

What was the focus of the GCC-US ministerial gathering?

The meeting centered on regional security, current developments in the Middle East, the Strait of Hormuz, and bolstering the US-GCC strategic alliance.

Who represented the UAE in the GCC-US meeting?

Lana Nusseibeh, Minister of State, represented H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the gathering.

Who led the GCC-US ministerial meeting?

Dr. Abdullatif Al Zayani, Bahrain’s Foreign Minister, hosted the meeting under Bahrain's rotating presidency of the GCC.

Who headed the US delegation?

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio was at the forefront of the US delegation.