King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz gives interview to 'Al-Seyassah' 6

Q: What is the impact of UAE withdrawal from the Gulf Monetary Union
which was announced few days ago?

A: Our brothers in the UAE are the sons of our brother Late Sheikh
Zayed (May Allah bless his soul) who was one of the pillars in
establishing the Gulf Cooperation Council. Undoubtedly, the agreement
on GCC Monetary Union will be reviewed before being approved or
forced. Of course, this review will come up with results and
decisions issuing froth from the fabric of the historical gulf values
which we all cherish and these enrich our cooperation relations. The
honorable stances of Sheikh Zayed (May Allah bless his soul) in this
regard made him a leader committed to gulf passionate ties and
closeness.

The GCC leaders realize that interdependence among their countries is
their future, power and fortitude. We are confident that the UAE will
not hesitate to consolidate the bonds of interdependence and enhance
the desired strength of our countries. Our historical heritage is
one, and our objective is one country in which no brother is called
to account.

Generally, the atmosphere of reviewing the monetary union agreement
is open. The UAE has conscientious leadership embodied in the sons of
Zayed (May Allah bless his soul). They are aware of the affairs of
their country. We do not doubt their keenness on strengthening GCC
resolutions.

Q: Will the withdrawal of the UAE from the Gulf Monetary Union affect
the UAE-Saudi relations?

A: The GCC leaders may disagree on particular issues or views, but
this disagreement disappears soon whether in GCC Summits or through
bilateral meetings. The difference of opinion has not constituted a
difference for the entire march and history of our council.
Therefore, the Kingdom and the UAE will remain brothers, and any
difference of opinion, as I told you, will soon disappear when
reviewing the causes of this difference in the future. The UAE is
ruled by brilliant minds that are able to sift through issues.
However, the issues raised in the GCC are agreed upon by the six
states not by a particular one; that is to say, it is an agreement to
achieve the interests of every one in a way that benefits the entire
region and links the interests of the gulf peoples. On this basis,
there will not be any difference, and the next review prior to the
implementation will solve what has been disagreed on.

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