MANAMA: Sudan took center stage on Wednesday in the final statement of the 46th session of the Gulf Cooperation Council Summit in Bahrain, with leaders strongly backing Saudi-led efforts to end the conflict and restore stability.
The Supreme Council reaffirmed its full support for a Sudanese-led political process that preserves the country’s security, unity and institutions, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
It stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire, the protection of civilians and unhindered humanitarian access across Sudan to avert worsening famine risks, in line with international humanitarian law and the Jeddah Declaration.
GCC leaders praised the efforts of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in advancing peace in Sudan, including during his recent visit to Washington last month.
They also welcomed US President Donald Trump’s announcement of his intention to work with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt and other Middle Eastern partners to end the war and secure lasting stability.
The leaders further welcomed the Sept. 12 statement issued by the Quartet Committee — the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the US — on restoring peace and security in Sudan.
The statement praised the humanitarian and relief support provided by GCC member states, friendly nations and international organizations to the Sudanese people.
Leaders emphasized that any political transition must lead to an independent civilian government that excluded extremist groups and those responsible for crimes against the Sudanese population.
Beyond Sudan, the summit reaffirmed the GCC’s commitment to unity, joint action and integration across economic, security and climate-related fields.
Leaders reviewed progress on economic unity, approved the gradual launch of the GCC Customs Data Exchange Platform in late 2026, and endorsed the establishment of a GCC Civil Aviation Authority — to be headquartered in the UAE — along with the general agreement for the GCC Railway Project. They also stressed the importance of stable global energy markets, support for energy transitions, and the development of technologies that improve emissions management.
The statement highlighted the bloc’s achievements in implementing the Circular Carbon Economy framework through initiatives such as the Saudi and Middle East Green Initiatives, clean hydrogen projects and carbon capture solutions.
On regional matters, the leaders discussed developments in Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya and Gaza, reiterating the centrality of achieving a two-state solution.
The Supreme Council welcomed the agreement on an immediate ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan, and one between India and Pakistan, as well the historic peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
The session was chaired by Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa, with the participation of GCC leaders and Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Al-Budaiwi. It was also attended by the guest of honor, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
Saudi Arabia will host the next summit, marking the 47th session of the Supreme Council.
