GCC… 43 Years of Regional Interaction, Distinguished International Presence – Report -1

HE Director of Policy and Planning Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Khalid bin Fahad Al Khater clarified that the vision is based on several pillars of security for the GCC, foremost among these is the Council's fundamental charter, which emphasizes the shared destiny and unity of purpose among the member states, aiming for coordination and integration, in addition to, the joint defense agreement stipulates that any attack on one member is considered an attack on all, and any threat to one is a threat to all. HE Dr. Al Khater also participated in a panel discussion organized by the GCC General Secretariat during the event, focusing on the GCC's vision for regional security and ways to enhance and advance it. In his speech, he highlighted that enhancing regional security is a priority for Qatar during its current presidency of the GCC, reflecting Qatar's long-standing commitment to contributing to regional security by building bridges of dialogue and cooperation. Over its more than four-deca de-long journey, the GCC has achieved numerous historical milestones that have strengthened the Council's foundation and entrenched its goals and aspirations in the hearts of Gulf citizens. Among these achievements is the establishment of the Gulf Common Market, which offers numerous benefits, including the seamless flow of goods between GCC countries, thereby increasing competition among Gulf institutions to the benefit of consumers. The GCC also established a "Free Trade Area," primarily characterized by the exemption of GCC-produced industrial, agricultural, and natural resource products from customs duties. This Free Trade Area came into effect in March 1983 and lasted for nearly twenty years until the end of 2002, when it was replaced by the GCC Customs Union. During its journey, which has now entered its fifth decade, the GCC also accomplished the project of the unified GCC identity card (smart card). This initiative has facilitated the movement of citizens between member states, reduced wait times at entry points through the use of electronic gates, and aided the smooth movement of national labor between member states. In terms of the GCC's milestones and projects, the adoption of a comprehensive security strategy for its member states and the GCC security agreement stands out. Joint military work has always received attention from Their Majesties and Highnesses, the leaders of the GCC states, since its inception. Notable achievements in this area include the approval of the GCC joint defense agreement, the GCC defense strategy, the formation of the Peninsula Shield Force, and the conducting of joint military exercises. The education sector has also garnered significant attention from the GCC in recent years, achieving numerous successes such as equality in general and technical education and the promotion of Gulf citizenship values. The GCC established the Gulf Network for Quality Assurance in Higher Education and approved the guide for good practices, ensuring equal treatment for GCC nationals residin g in member states in universities and public higher education institutions. Source: Qatar News Agency