Gulf States and Russia forge collaborative efforts for global peace and economic stability
Ministers from Russia and the Gulf States have stressed the need to work together to achieve global peace, security, stability and prosperity, according to a joint statement released by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Russia. The statement followed the sixth strategic dialogue ministerial meeting between the GCC countries and Russia in Moscow.
The meeting took place ahead of a NATO meeting in Vilnius, Lithuania, which will focus on Western assistance to Ukraine.
According to Arab News, GCC Secretary General Jassim al-Budaiwi expressed the Gulf states' willingness to intensify cooperation with Russia. Both sides stressed the importance of supporting the world economy and maintaining stability in the global oil market.
Furthermore, the Gulf States and Russia commended the efforts of OPEC+ nations in this regard, stressing the importance of continued cooperation among all participating countries to ensure compliance with the OPEC+ agreement, ultimately serving the interests of the global economy.
Al-Budaiwi further highlighted the positive impact of cooperation with Russia within the OPEC+ group on the oil market. He affirmed that the GCC's stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict is in line with the conventions and principles established by the UN.
The Arab Gulf States support the UN principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of states and support all mediation efforts aimed at resolving the conflict.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov welcomed the rapprochement between the Gulf States and Iran, as well as Syria's re-entry into the Arab League. Lavrov underlined Russia's unified position with the Gulf States on Syria's territorial integrity and sovereignty, stressing the positive effects for the region of Syria's return to the Arab League. .
He also stressed the need to find solutions to the crises in Sudan and Yemen, while praising the Gulf States' efforts to resolve the Yemeni crisis and initiate a comprehensive national dialogue.
Moreover, as reported by The National News, Al-Budaiwi mentioned that, in addition to trade, the Black Sea Grain Initiative was also discussed in the talks. The Gulf countries aim to enhance cooperation with Russia in all its forms and extend the grain agreement to cover other Black Sea ports, thereby enhancing global security, particularly for developing nations.
The Black Sea Grains Initiative
This project plays an important role in world wheat exports, accounting for about 20 per cent of the total. The disruption of agricultural production in Ukraine has contributed to the recent rise in global food prices.
Since the signing of the agreement in July 2022, more than 30 million tonnes of grain have been transported through the Black Sea waterway. However, concerns were raised over its possible suspension after Russia accused the West of imposing sanctions on its food and fertiliser exports.
During the meeting, the ministers reviewed ways to strengthen Gulf-Russia relations, address the Ukrainian conflict and improve economic cooperation, according to a statement from Saudi Arabia's Spa news agency.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov held talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. Saudi Arabia's Foreign Ministry said the two officials reviewed strategic cooperation and historical relations between the two countries, exploring ways for their development and strengthening in various fields.
