“The strong bonds of relationship between people in the GCC
countries, thanks to their common features, is a factor that makes them
distinct from other regional groupings. The common features also serve as the
driving force to unite Gulf people on governmental and people’s levels,” said
Al-Asheikh, who is heading the Saudi delegation to a two-day meeting of Shoura
councils and national assemblies in the United Arab Emirates that begins
Monday.
“This relationship will reinforce our efforts to put
together our potentials and strengthen our cooperation at a time when all
nations in the world are setting up groups of common interest. We can also turn
to a closely knit unit of homogeneous parts to achieve the objectives that are
aimed at by the founding of the GCC,” said Al-Asheikh.
The meeting will review a report on the progress of the
joint GCC march and discuss the annual coordination plan for parliamentary and
diplomatic engagements at international forums.
The decision to hold periodic meetings of the Shoura
councils in the GCC was made in the 27th GCC summit held in Riyadh in December
2006. Its initial aim was to coordinate the activities of legislative and
consultative bodies in the region to boost the cooperation of citizens of GCC
countries.
“The influence of a country is measured by its membership in
regional and geographical blocs these days. Our gathering has won success in
the regional and Arab level. Still, we need deeper relations, cooperation and integration
in all spheres of life.” Al-Asheikh said.
He also noted the efforts made by Custodian of the Two Holy
Mosques King Abdullah to achieve the unity and integration of the Gulf
countries in various fields. He also commended the efforts of leaders of GCC
countries for joint action in economy, politics, security, health, education,
environment and sports.
The secretary-general of the GCC, Abdul Rahman Al-Atiyyah,
will attend the meeting. In 1992, the late King Fahd announced new bylaws for
the Consultative Council in the Kingdom. On Dec. 29 1993, King Fahd opened the
first meeting of the new Shoura Council, the body was made up of 60 highly
qualified Saudi citizens with specializations in all areas, mandated to make
recommendations and give advice to the king.
In July 1997, when the second term of the Council began,
King Fahd expanded its membership to 90, and in 2001 he again increased the
number to 120. Currently, there are 150 members in the council.
