Unity among the Arab Gulf citizens goes beyond the geographical location, culture, language and religion, but also the monarchical political systems and strong social bonds that make extended families spread across the Gulf countries where cross-national intermarriages are common. The Arab Gulf states have more in common than what divides them. Therefore, establishing the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) was a necessity dictated by reality -- although the birth of the organisation coincided with challenging circumstances facing the region in general and the Gulf States in particular.
Regional tension and political and economic challenges prompted the bloc’s emergence on May 25, 1981. Therefore unifying efforts and cooperation to foster economic integration, political collaboration, and regional development was a pressing factor. As the GCC marks its 42nd anniversary, the founding fathers’ efforts built a solid foundation of cooperation that has driven substantial progress for the member states.
The organisations achievements have established a sense of unity among the people and led to optimism and confidence in the ongoing development plans, and member states ability to shape the future. Thanks to the solid ground on which the union was built, which has instilled confidence and inspired cooperation in various fields and adopted similar and joint development projects. The establishment of the Council also came in response to the aspirations of the region’s people for a regional Arab unity after it was not realisable at the comprehensive Arab level, according to the GCC General Secretariat.
GCC Secretary-General Jassim Muhammad Al Budaiwi said during a celebration ceremony yesterday at its headquarters in Riyadh, “the GCC march is moving forward to achieve the goals and aspirations of its people, and translate a reality that aims to preserve the gains achieved, and build for the future with confidence and determination”.
The GCC Secretary-General reiterated that this year’s anniversary comes. At the same time, the Gulf citizen enjoys security and stability, feels proud of their gains and achievements, and extends a helping hand to their brothers and humanity. As the primary goals of the GCC were to enhance coordination, integration and interdependence among member states across various sectors, the GCC Council has realised several achievements and implemented projects and visions, one of which is the GCC card (smart card), which unified the bloc’s identity.
This has facilitated the easy movement of citizens between member states and the establishment of a common market which provides several benefits, including the movement of goods among States.
