Riyadh, October 30 , SPA -- The Arab Gulf Cooperation Council ( GCC) Chiefs of staff held here today the 5th convention of the Higher Military Committee. Addressing the opening session, Saudi chief of staff General Salih bin Ali Al-Mohaya welcomed the attendees, pointing out that the security of the Council and protection of its wealth and vital interests will not be achieved except with Almighty Allah's support them under an integrated GCC Strategy. General Al-Mohaya emphasized the need to activate article 8 of the Joint defense Agreement that stipulates the development of the base of the military industries and to encourage the private sector to invest in this field. The meeting was also addressed by GCC Assistant Secretary General for military affairs Major General Khalifa bin Humeid Al-kaabi, who thanked on behalf of chiefs of staff, Crown Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Premier, Minister of Defense and Aviation and Inspector General and his brothers - members of the Joint defense Council, for their great care and support for the process of works in the military and joint defense March, citing the achievements since the start of the year 2007. The convention, then began its deliberations. The GCC is made up of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman.--SPA www.spa.gov.sa/494963