H.H. Sheikh Mohamed: UAE committed to regional progress, stability

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan said the UAE will continue to support all efforts aimed at ensuring regional prosperity, and stressed the country's firm belief in the benefit of cooperation between Gulf nations.

He made the comments during the 44th GCC Summit on Tuesday in Doha, which addressed ways to build upon the historical cooperation between GCC countries.

The meeting, which was inaugurated by Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, also covered key regional and international developments.

Sheikh Mohamed stated that the Gulf Cooperation Council represent successful models of regional and international engagement, and called upon member nations to continue making positive contributions to foster security and peace while achieving stability and prosperity. 

​He also underscored that in light of ongoing tensions in the region and the increasing intensity of the war in Gaza, the UAE has worked with its partners to identify a political horizon for a comprehensive peace.

His Highness expressed appreciation for efforts by Qatar, Egypt and the United States to reach a temporary truce, prompt the release of detainees, and increase the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

I thank my brother @TamimBinHamad for his generous invitation to today’s 44th GCC Summit in Doha. The UAE has always firmly believed in the benefit of cooperation between the Gulf nations, and we will continue to support all efforts aimed at ensuring regional progress, prosperity… pic.twitter.com/DePW4AnQxt

— محمد بن زايد (@MohamedBinZayed) December 5, 2023

In his opening remarks, Sheikh Tamim expressed his confidence in the ability of GCC nations to contribute to resolving regional issues.

The Qatari Emir said that the summit is being held in light of the unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe facing the Palestinian people, especially in the Gaza Strip.

He noted that the principle of self-defence does not permit the crimes of genocide committed by Israel and that Israel has violated humanitarian and moral standards in Gaza.

Sheikh Tamim added that the tragedy has another dimension: the steadfastness of the Palestinian people in obtaining their rights.

He called on the UN Security Council to fulfil its responsibility to end the war, stressing that regional security cannot be achieved without permanent peace, and permanent peace is not possible without a solution to the Palestinian issue.