A statement from the Gulf summit with Central Asian countries, held today in Jeddah, called for enhancing trade cooperation, respecting the sovereignty of states, developing investment areas, exchanging expertise, and discussing developmental priorities. The statement warned of the increasing risks of nuclear confrontation among armed nations that threaten international peace and security. It emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation in environmental issues, climate change, glacier protection, and water resources.
The statement highlighted the importance of ensuring flexibility in supply chains, transportation, communication, energy security, and water security, in addition to political coordination that achieves security and stability. It also expressed support for leaders nominating Saudi Arabia to host Expo 2030 in Riyadh.
The first summit between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the five Central Asian countries—Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan—kicked off today in Jeddah. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced the adoption of the closing statement of the summit at its conclusion, saying, "We congratulate the adoption of the joint action plan between the GCC and Central Asian countries," and stressed the need to intensify joint efforts to address issues affecting energy security and supply chains. He underscored the importance of respecting state sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs.
Kuwait's Crown Prince Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah expressed hope that "today's meeting will contribute to enhancing partnerships between the Gulf and Central Asia." Tajikistan's President Emomali Rahmon pointed out the necessity of security cooperation with Gulf countries to enhance stability in Central Asia. Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev stated, "We must confront Islamophobia, extremism, and racism in the world."
GCC Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi viewed this historic first summit as a cornerstone for strengthening cooperation between the two sides. Meanwhile, Oman’s representative, As'ad bin Tariq, praised the supportive positions of Central Asian countries on Arab just causes, foremost among them the Palestinian issue.
The summit, which discusses enhancing cooperation and coordination in various fields, comes amid increasing regional and international interest and competition for the five Central Asian countries, due to their location, geostrategic importance, and natural resources, which qualify them for significant developmental leaps. Leaders and heads of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Central Asian countries began arriving in Jeddah on Tuesday evening to participate in their first summit, which starts (Wednesday) in western Saudi Arabia to enhance cooperation and coordination across various fields.
