Zayani: Gulf States are Committed to GCC’s Unity, Role

GCC Secretary General Dr. Abdullatif al-Zayani. (AFP)
GCC Secretary General Dr. Abdullatif al-Zayani. (AFP)
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Zayani: Gulf States are Committed to GCC’s Unity, Role

GCC Secretary General Dr. Abdullatif al-Zayani. (AFP)
GCC Secretary General Dr. Abdullatif al-Zayani. (AFP)

Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Dr. Abdullatif al-Zayani said on Sunday the GCC states are committed to the principles and objectives of the Council.

He said they are keen to enhance its current and future role, maintain its unity, harness its capabilities to serve GCC’s citizens and safeguard the security and stability of its member states and the region in the face of all challenges.

He praised the active role played by the GCC at the regional and global levels.

Zayani explained that it provides advice for regional and international allies and humanitarian assistance to all world countries.

He also stressed the importance of the joint Gulf response to confront challenges that threaten regional security and stability.

He also pointed out that history proves that successful nations are those that were able to build strong alliances based on solid foundations.

Zayani, who spoke at a lecture addressing students of the Saudi Command and Staff College in Riyadh, said that GCC allies and their international partners want it to continue to play its vital role in enhancing regional security and stability.

He affirmed that maintaining the strength of the Council serves the interests of its member states and the region.

He also pointed out that the GCC has passed this test for nearly 38 years and is the current best model in the region.

Zayani noted that challenges in the region may take different forms, but the Middle East peace process remains the central issue.

Yemen remains the greatest challenge for the GCC, he said, explaining that the Saudi-led coalition is continuing its mission to achieve peace in the war-torn country and eliminate the Iranian influence that threatens its security and stability.

He spoke about the efforts exerted by the GCC through the cooperative system to bolster the security of the coalition through a range of security, social and economic initiatives and projects and in the field of safety and recovery.

Later on Sunday, Zayani held talks with Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Ibrahim al-Assaf to discuss issues of common interest.



Saudi Arabia: No Diseases or Security Incidents Reported at Hajj

Muslims participate in a morning prayer around the Kaaba, Islam's holiest shrine, at the Grand Mosque complex in Makkah on June 6, 2025, to mark the start of the Eid al-Adha festival. (AFP)
Muslims participate in a morning prayer around the Kaaba, Islam's holiest shrine, at the Grand Mosque complex in Makkah on June 6, 2025, to mark the start of the Eid al-Adha festival. (AFP)
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Saudi Arabia: No Diseases or Security Incidents Reported at Hajj

Muslims participate in a morning prayer around the Kaaba, Islam's holiest shrine, at the Grand Mosque complex in Makkah on June 6, 2025, to mark the start of the Eid al-Adha festival. (AFP)
Muslims participate in a morning prayer around the Kaaba, Islam's holiest shrine, at the Grand Mosque complex in Makkah on June 6, 2025, to mark the start of the Eid al-Adha festival. (AFP)

Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz announced on Thursday that no diseases or security incidents have been reported during this year’s Hajj.

The pilgrims traveled from the holy city of Makkah to Mina and later to Arafat smoothly and in line with operational plans, he stressed.

Their transport was held in record time, he revealed, while the pilgrims enjoyed integrated services provided by all concerned sectors.

Prince Saud added: “God Almighty honored the Saudi leadership, government and people with hosting the holy sites and serving its visitors.”

“This is a major responsibility that obligates us to fulfill with dedication” to meet the aspirations of the visitors, he added.

He highlighted the system of services that the Saudi government has provided to the pilgrims that has ensured that they carried out their rituals smoothly and safely.

He also highlighted the financial and human resources that have been dedicated to organizing the Hajj. They have been backed by massive projects and plans that are being overseen by Interior Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif so that the pilgrims can perform their rituals at ease.

Prince Saud called on the pilgrims to respect regulations and instructions because “your safety is our goal and serving you is our purpose.”