His Excellency Mr Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), expressed the GCC states’ denunciation and condemnation of the media statements made by Iranian officials regarding the GCC states.
These statements infringe upon the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Bahrain, the rights of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) regarding its three islands (Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa) which are occupied by Iran, and the sovereignty of the Durra oil field, which is jointly owned by the State of Kuwait and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
"These statements contained fallacies, false claims, and rejected allegations that contradict the principles of non-interference in internal affairs and good neighbourliness—principles which Iran violated through its aggression against the sovereignty and independence of the State of Qatar," His Excellency stated.
Furthermore, he noted that these statements contradict the GCC states' continuous efforts to enhance and develop relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran at all levels.
"The GCC states have consistently reaffirmed the importance of adhering to the foundations and principles enshrined in the United Nations (UN) Charter and international law, including the principles of good neighbourliness, respect for state sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, the peaceful resolution of disputes, and refraining from the use or threat of force," His Excellency emphasised.
His Excellency Mr Albudaiwi added that the GCC states have always demonstrated good will towards Iran, stressing their keenness on Iran's security and stability in order to preserve the interests of the Iranian people and spares the region the repercussions of tension and escalation.
"This commitment was underlined during the joint meetings between the GCC Foreign Ministers and the Iranian Foreign Minister, Dr Abbas Araghchi. The Council member states have also underscored the significance of continuing bilateral communication between the GCC and the Islamic Republic of Iran to enhance shared interests and maintain regional security and stability," His Excellency pointed out.
Moreover, His Excellency affirmed the GCC states' commitment to peace, coexistence, and pursuing dialogue and diplomatic solutions in international relations.
He called on Iran to cease spreading false claims that undermine trust and hinder communication and understanding, at a time when the countries of the region need rapprochement and cooperation to safeguard their interests and achieve their peoples' aspirations for security, stability, growth, and prosperity.