Jasem Al-Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), affirmed that the Gulf-American Summit in Riyadh marks the culmination of the strong strategic partnership between GCC states and the United States, reflecting the depth of the historical relationship between the two sides.

In his address at the summit, Al-Budaiwi expressed profound gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz and His Royal Highness Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, for hosting the summit and extending warm hospitality to all participants.

He added that U.S. President Donald Trump’s choice to visit the Kingdom and GCC countries as his first foreign destinations at the outset of his second presidential term underscores the strength of this alliance and exemplifies a model relationship in international diplomacy.

Al-Budaiwi noted that the Gulf-American partnership is built on a solid foundation backed by facts and figures, spanning trade, investment, education, energy, and defense, with over ten joint working groups linking the two sides. He highlighted that bilateral trade exceeded $120 billion in 2024, alongside growing Gulf investments in the U.S. and increasing American capital in the GCC’s technology, energy, and infrastructure sectors.

He emphasized that while GCC countries continue to lead in traditional energy, they are advancing partnerships with the U.S. in clean energy and environmental innovation. These ties are further strengthened by tens of thousands of Gulf students in American universities, U.S. academic branches in the region, and deeply rooted defense cooperation, reflected in high-profile deals and shared military bases.

On the Palestinian Issue
Regarding the Palestinian cause, Al-Budaiwi stressed that the tragedy in Gaza necessitates expediting ongoing negotiations to cease hostilities, release hostages, and resume aid delivery. He reiterated that a sustainable solution lies in a just settlement leading to an independent Palestinian state, per UN resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative.

He reaffirmed the GCC’s steadfast support for the Palestinian people across all levels, asserting that this paves the way for comprehensive peace, security, and stability in the region.

On Syria
The GCC Secretary-General thanked President Trump for his decision to lift sanctions on Syria, noting that this timely and substantive move—supported by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman—aligns with the Syrian people’s aspirations for a prosperous and secure future.

A Renewed Partnership
In closing, Al-Budaiwi underscored that GCC states stand at the threshold of a new era of revitalized partnership, anchored in shared history, mutual trust, and common interests. He emphasized that this partnership is no longer optional but a strategic necessity to ensure global security, stability, and prosperity.