The Qatari foreign minister stressed the firm position of the Gulf states on ridding the Middle East of nuclear weapons, while recognizing the right of countries in the region to possess nuclear expertise in the field of nuclear energy in accordance with the International Atomic Energy Agency standards. He reiterated call on the Republic of Iran to respond to international efforts to reach a political settlement of its nuclear program that ensures security and stability of the region. He underlined GCC countries' procedures, mechanisms and measures to combat the spread of the phenomenon of terrorism, expressing firm positions rejecting this dangerous scourge and supporting regional and international effort to combat this phenomenon. The closed-door session began afterwards. The session will discuss a number of issues related to political, economic, security and military aspects. --SPA 14:54 LOCAL TIME 11:54 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/w