Russia Hopes for 'Gulf Unity' During Upcoming GCC Summit

Press conference of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Qatari counterpart and Deputy Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Moscow. (Russian Foreign Ministry)
Press conference of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Qatari counterpart and Deputy Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Moscow. (Russian Foreign Ministry)
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Russia Hopes for 'Gulf Unity' During Upcoming GCC Summit

Press conference of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Qatari counterpart and Deputy Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Moscow. (Russian Foreign Ministry)
Press conference of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Qatari counterpart and Deputy Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Moscow. (Russian Foreign Ministry)

Russia hopes that the upcoming Gulf summit would culminate efforts to end disputes within countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), announced Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

He indicated that Moscow hopes the Gulf summit scheduled for January 5 will lead to overcoming division within the GCC and allow the resumption of its activities.

Lavrov was speaking during a press conference following his talks with Qatari counterpart and Deputy Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Moscow.

Russia's interest in this matter stems from the partnership and friendly relations it has with all GCC countries, according to Lavrov.

He reiterated that restoring the unity of the Council and its ability to perform its duties are two important matters to maintain security in the Gulf region, with the participation of Iran.

The minister pointed out that the Russian initiative that was put forward a year ago to ensure security in the Gulf, was handed to all relevant parties.

He described the reconciliation talks as “very useful” despite the differences.

The Qatari Minister announced a breakthrough in the GCC crisis after the Kuwaiti statement on the issue two weeks ago.

He indicated that talks are ongoing to reach an initial agreement on the framework to accomplish reconciliation.

The talks on the reconciliation, under Kuwait’s mediation and US' support, were only held with Saudi Arabia, but the latter was representing the other parties, reported Al Thani.

He indicated that Qatar believes the discussions were positive and constructive, and there is a serious effort to find solutions and restore unity in the GCC.

The minister stressed the importance of the Council as a regional entity in an area where conflicts are frequent.

He pointed out that the talks were based on foundations that include respecting the sovereignty of countries.

He reiterated the need to reach an understanding based on principles that preserve the security and stability of the region and seek to establish a joint cooperation action serving the interest of Gulf security.

The Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the issues of stabilizing the situation in the Gulf region are among the main issues addressed during the two ministers' discussions.

It stressed the importance of coordinating specific practical steps by countries in the region to reduce tensions.

The statement indicated that the talks also addressed the situation in Libya and Syria, as well as the Palestinian cause.



Namirah Mosque Ready for Hajj’s Arafat Day with Major Upgrades

Significant development projects have been implemented to improve the comfort of pilgrims at the mosque. (SPA)
Significant development projects have been implemented to improve the comfort of pilgrims at the mosque. (SPA)
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Namirah Mosque Ready for Hajj’s Arafat Day with Major Upgrades

Significant development projects have been implemented to improve the comfort of pilgrims at the mosque. (SPA)
Significant development projects have been implemented to improve the comfort of pilgrims at the mosque. (SPA)

The Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance has completed extensive preparations at Namirah Mosque in Arafat, ensuring it is fully ready to welcome Hajj pilgrims on the day of Arafat, which falls on Thursday. The mosque has been furnished with 125,000 square meters of luxurious carpets.

Significant development projects have been implemented to improve the comfort of pilgrims. The backyard now features 19 canopies that reduce heat stress by an average of 10 degrees Celsius, complemented by sun-reflecting floor paint. The surrounding courtyards are also prepared and cooled with 117 fog fans, lowering temperatures by an average of 9 degrees Celsius.

A major ventilation and air conditioning upgrade includes a new control system that monitors carbon dioxide levels and operates air purification units, allowing for 100% air renewal every 30 minutes. This system also controls water pumps, boosting operational efficiency and providing a healthier environment for pilgrims.

For hydration, 70 water chillers have been installed, each capable of serving 2,000 pilgrims per hour, totaling a capacity of 140,000 pilgrims per hour.

An advanced audio system and security surveillance cameras have also been integrated to boost safety and security.

Furthermore, the mosque's 72 gates and entrances have been strategically organized to ensure a smooth flow of pilgrims.

These extensive tasks were carried out by dedicated supervisory and service teams committed to providing the best services to pilgrims.