Joint statement by ministerial meeting of GCC-US forum on strategic cooperation 3 New York

  • 2/5/2023
  • 19:35
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The Ministers called for full implementation of the reform initiatives of the Abadi government in Iraq, and emphasized the need for a national reconciliation process that ensures all Iraqis have a stake in the Iraqi government. Expressing solidarity with all the people of Iraq as they combat the terrorist organization Da’ish, the Ministers agreed to intensify support to and cooperation with the Government of Iraq as it strives to address the needs of all its communities. The Ministers reaffirmed the commitment of GCC member states to reestablishing a diplomatic presence in Baghdad and to working with the Iraqi government to support efforts against Da’ish, including in Anbar and other provinces. The Ministers stressed the integral importance of an effective and inclusive Iraqi government, emphasized the need for capable security forces in the fight against Da’ish, and agreed to take steps to support Iraq’s security and stability. The Ministers reiterated the importance of contributing to UN humanitarian appeals to assist those affected by the conflict. The Ministers denounced the scourge of violent extremism and committed to strengthening efforts to counter Da’ish, al-Qaeda and all groups promoting sectarianism and inflicting violence upon the people of the Middle East and around the world. They noted that the threat of ungoverned spaces underscores the role of political instability in allowing extremism to thrive, and the importance of good governance and economic opportunity to countering violent extremism. The Ministers condemned Hezbollah’s actions, not only in Syria, but throughout the region. The United States and GCC member states reaffirmed their commitment to advancing a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. They called on all parties to take steps to demonstrate their commitment to a just, lasting, comprehensive peace that results in an independent and contiguous Palestinian state living side-by-side in peace and security with Israel. They underscored the enduring importance of the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative, and agreed to continue close consultations on a plan for the way ahead. The United States and GCC member states expressed their serious concern over recent tensions and incidents in Jerusalem and urged calm. They also urged the parties to exercise restraint and refrain from unilateral actions that may jeopardize a two-state solution. The Ministers also recommitted to continue fulfilling financial pledges for reconstruction and humanitarian assistance efforts in Gaza, to include pledges made at the October 2014 Cairo Conference. The Ministers fully support the text for the framework to create a Government of National Accord which UN SRSG Leon released Sept 21 to the parties to the political dialogue. The Ministers look forward to the swift approval of the framework by each party. The Ministers urged the parties to agree quickly on individuals who will fill the GNA's five-member Presidency Council. The Ministers called upon all Libyans to work toward a unified government that can combat the threat of transnational terrorist organizations and guarantee security and prosperity for all Libyans. The Ministers affirmed their commitment to provide urgent support to the Government of National Accord to help it function and respond to the needs of the Libyan people. The Ministers underscored the accomplishments of the GCC-U.S. SCF in building upon the strong foundation of strategic partnership between their countries. They pledged to continue consulting closely, as they strive to build closer relations in all fields, including defense and security cooperation, and develop collective approaches to regional issues that advance our shared priority of a stable and secure Middle East. They agreed to meet again in 2016 to continue the discussion and review progress on the initiatives outlined above. --SPA 03:58 LOCAL TIME 00:58 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/w

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