GCC, UK talks to strengthen cooperation progress

Manama, Dec. 7 (BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa said that the meeting between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the United Kingdom in Bahrain will strengthen the progress of the deep-rooted historical cooperation that has brought them together for more than two hundred years. "Holding such a summit, with its vital and essential goals and directions in terms of the Gulf-British relations, is a sound decision and blessed policy, in view of the importance of strategic alliances in today's world to face various challenges, as well as the need for becoming closer and continuing coordination to safeguard our achievements as people and nations that embrace, development, peace and stability," His Majesty said in his speech on the second day of the 37th GCC Summit attended by the leaders of the member countries and British Prime Minister Theresa May, the guest of honour. His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa delivered the following speech: "In the name of Allah the Merciful Your Majesties and Highnesses, Your Excellency, Theresa May, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Ladies and gentlemen, Peace, mercy and blessings of Allah be upon you, It is my pleasure on behalf the leaders of the GCC countries, and myself, to thank Her Excellency the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Theresa May, for attending this important meeting, on her first official visit to the region, that will strengthen the progress of the deep-rooted historical cooperation that has brought together the United Kingdom with the Gulf Cooperation Council for more than two hundred years. We look forward to a fruitful result to our discussions today and seek wider horizons of cooperation, between the two sides, to reach new agreements and valuable decisions to build on what has already been achieved, through the exchange of views and expertise, in many fields, In particular the political, defense, security and economic fields, and focus on developing the partnership between the public and private sectors, as well as investing in promising opportunities, through clear and specific plans of action that adopt the appropriate mechanisms for the continuity of consultation, cooperation and coordination, to further bolster our strategic relationship with the United Kingdom. Ladies and Gentlemen, Holding such a summit, with its vital and essential goals and directions in terms of the Gulf-British relations, is a sound decision and blessed policy, in view of the importance of strategic alliances in today's world to face various challenges, as well as the need for becoming closer and continuing coordination to safeguard our achievements as people and nations that embrace, development, peace and stability. We are confident that the process of joint work between the two sides will witness a valuable transition, given the nature of the friendly close ties that bind us with the United Kingdom based on trust and mutual respect. Thank you for your kind attention, and peace, mercy and blessings of Allah be upon you."