The Gulf Cooperation Council-US Summit was held in Riyadh on Wednesday at the invitation of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and co-chaired by Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and US President Donald Trump.
The summit tackled several files, starting with economic, trade and investment changes, and regional security and political affairs.
In his opening address, Crown Prince Mohammed said the meeting “builds upon the longstanding relationship and strategic partnership between our countries and the United States, evolving into a model of cooperation over the decades.”
“This summit underscores our commitment to collective action in strengthening relations, expanding strategic partnerships, and fulfilling the aspirations of our nations and peoples,” he added.
“The GCC states and US share a common belief in the importance of economic partnerships and trade cooperation,” he continued.
“The US stands as a key trade and investment partner for our states, with trade volume between the Gulf and US reaching around $120 billion in 2024. We look forward to further collaboration in trade exchange, consolidating economic relations, and exploring new avenues for mutual benefit across various sectors that align with our shared interests.”
“The future we envision, through achieving sustainable development goals, depends on a stable and secure environment,” he said.
“Recognizing the significant challenges addressing our region, we aim to work collaboratively with President Trump, and in partnership with the GCC countries to de-escalate tensions in the region, end the war in Gaza, and seek a lasting and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian cause in alignment with the Arab Peace Initiative and relevant international resolutions,” stated Crown Prince Mohammed.
“Our objective is to ensure security and peace for the peoples of the region. We reiterate our support for all efforts aimed at resolving crises and halting conflicts through peaceful means,” he declared.
On Yemen, he said Saudi Arabia reiterates its commitment to fostering dialogue among Yemeni parties to reach a comprehensive political solution in their country.
“We will also continue our efforts to end the crisis in Sudan through the Jeddah platform, sponsored by Saudi Arabia and the US, with the aim of achieving a complete ceasefire,” he added.
On Syria, Crown Prince Mohammed said: “We underscore the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria and supporting the Syrian government's efforts to restore security and stability.”
“We commend the decision made yesterday by President Trump to lift the sanctions on Syria. This decision will alleviate the suffering of the Syrian people and pave the way for a new chapter of growth and prosperity,” he remarked.
Turning to Lebanon, he expressed is support for efforts led by President Joseph Aoun and the Lebanese government “to implement institutional reforms, ensure all weapons are under the authority of the state, and protect Lebanon's sovereignty and security.”
“We welcome the ceasefire agreement between Pakistan and India and hope that it will contain escalation and restore calm between the two countries.”
“Regarding the Ukrainian crisis, we reaffirm the Kingdom's readiness to continue its efforts toward achieving a political solution that brings the conflict to an end. We welcome the efforts of President Trump and his commitment to resolving this crisis,” said Crown Prince Mohammed.
“Our summit today underscores the importance of continued cooperation and coordination on regional and international issues, recognizing their vital role in promoting peace, security, and stability both in the region and the world,” he stressed.
