Riyadh, April 30 (QNA) - The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) affirmed today its commitment to achieving Gulf economic unity and consolidating its member states' position as a leading global center for economic and developmental fields.

In a speech delivered during the 70th meeting of the GCC Trade Cooperation Committee, held virtually, GCC Secretary-General Jassim Mohammed Albudaiwi emphasized the Gulf states' unwavering commitment to strengthening economic integration as part of their relentless pursuit of Gulf economic unity and solidifying their position as a leading global economic and developmental hub. He noted that the meeting was taking place at a critical juncture following the blatant Iranian attacks targeting GCC member states, necessitating a shift from traditional coordination to a higher level of practical integration and proactive response.

He stressed that the current regional circumstances and escalating challenges are no longer merely temporary but represent a genuine test for the GCC to safeguard its achievements and ensure the continued efficiency and stability of its vital sectors. He explained that building a strong and sustainable economy can only be achieved through joint cooperation and unified integration among the member states.

He also pointed out that the GDP of the GCC countries reached about USD 2.4 trillion in 2025, ranking 10th globally in this indicator, while the volume of intra-GCC trade, measured in 2024, amounted to more than USD 146 billion, with an annual growth rate of 9.8 percent, which confirms the growing strength and expansion of Gulf trade. (QNA)