General Secretariat – Munich.
His Excellency Mr Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), underlined that the Council—through its unity and strategic methodology—is more than a guardian of its sovereign interests; it is an essential partner in maintaining regional and global stability and a pillar for international cooperation.
He pointed out that the GCC continues to play a pivotal role in bolstering security and stability through a framework of dialogue, diplomacy, and global partnerships, serving as a steadfast example of how challenges can be transformed into opportunities for progress and shared prosperity.
These remarks were delivered during His Excellency’s participation in the panel discussion titled "A Vision for the New Middle East: The Future of Regional Integration." The session was held on the sidelines of the 62nd Munich Security Conference, organised by the Atlantic Council, today, Friday, February 13, 2026, in Munich, Federal Republic of Germany.
"The leaders of the Council states maintain an unwavering belief in a fundamental principle: that the security and stability of the GCC states constitute the bedrock of security and stability for the entire region," His Excellency stressed.
He explained that the Middle East faces interconnected security, political, and economic challenges that demand a collective vision rooted in respect for state sovereignty, commitment to international law, and the adoption of peaceful resolutions to conflicts.
"The Cooperation Council adopts a comprehensive strategy for crisis management that integrates political mediation, economic cooperation, and the cultivation of international partnerships. To this end, the Council has woven a network of relations spanning more than 23 countries and 8 international organisations and groups," His Excellency stated.
Moreover, His Excellency emphasised that the Palestinian cause remains at the very heart of the Cooperation Council’s priorities, underscoring the necessity of achieving a just and lasting peace in accordance with the two-state solution. This includes the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Furthermore, he stressed the importance of addressing the challenges associated with the Iranian nuclear file, asserting the necessity of the GCC states' participation in any relevant negotiations. "This participation is vital to ensuring regional security and stability, and to bolstering efforts aimed at rendering the Middle East a zone free of weapons of mass destruction (WMD)," His Excellency underscored.
His Excellency concluded his remarks by saying: "The Council states have consistently been at the forefront of humanitarian action, having provided approximately $14 billion in humanitarian aid between 2020 and 2025. This significant contribution reflects their unwavering commitment to supporting international stability and global development."