Kuwait city: The Ministerial Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has officially recognized the State of Qatar’s mediation efforts in facilitating the signing of a declaration of principles between the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the March 23 Movement. The signing ceremony took place in Doha on July 19, 2025, marking a significant step in the peace process between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of Rwanda.
According to Qatar News Agency, the 165th GCC Ministerial Council meeting, held in Kuwait and chaired by Abdullah Al Yahya, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Kuwait, issued a final statement expressing appreciation for Qatar’s role. The Council also commended mediation efforts by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States to reach a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.
The Ministerial Council noted the outcomes of its joint ministerial meeting with Japan’s Foreign Minister and urged intensified efforts to implement the agreed-upon strategic partnership plan. The Council welcomed the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption of a resolution on cooperation with the GCC, highlighting the organization’s role as a regional partner in promoting international peace and security.
The Council evaluated the General Secretariat’s report on Gulf cooperation and member states’ efforts, reaffirming the GCC’s resolutions. It discussed regional and international developments, reiterating its consistent positions and previous decisions.
Addressing the Gaza situation, the Council emphasized the United Nations General Assembly’s resolution advocating for an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian aid access, and adherence to international laws. It condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza, including genocide, ethnic cleansing, and infrastructure destruction, urging international intervention.
The Council supported Qatar, Egypt, and the United States’ mediation efforts for a Gaza ceasefire and humanitarian aid delivery. It praised Germany’s suspension of military support to Israel and called on other countries to follow suit.
On the Palestinian issue, the Council reaffirmed its support for a two-state solution, ending Israeli occupation, and creating an independent Palestinian state. It lauded a recent international conference co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France, promoting peaceful resolutions and unification efforts.
The Council condemned Israel’s actions regarding the Ibrahimi Mosque and West Bank settlements, and it denounced statements about “Greater Israel.” It reiterated the importance of direct negotiations for a lasting resolution to the Palestinian issue.
The Council maintained its stance on UAE’s sovereignty over the three islands occupied by Iran and called for peaceful negotiations or International Court of Justice intervention. It also emphasized Iraq’s respect for Kuwait’s territorial integrity and urged adherence to maritime agreements.
Regarding Al Durra Field, the Council reaffirmed Saudi Arabia and Kuwait’s exclusive rights to the field’s natural resources. It condemned terrorism and extremism, expressing solidarity with affected countries, including the Central African Republic and Pakistan.
The Council acknowledged Syria’s efforts to resolve the As Suwayda crisis and condemned Israeli attacks on Syrian sovereignty. It reiterated support for Syria’s unity and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.
The Council welcomed Lebanon’s decision to restrict weapons possession to the state and condemned Israeli attacks on Lebanon. It called for international support to ensure Lebanon’s security and peace.
On Yemen, the Council stressed maritime security and condemned Houthi actions threatening navigation and regional stability. It urged international cooperation to support Yemen’s recovery and development.
Finally, the Council emphasized continued negotiations on Iran’s nuclear file and the importance of GCC participation in related discussions, praising Oman’s facilitation of dialogue.