The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, talked with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General, Jassem Mohammed Al-Badiwi, during the United Nations General Assembly events in New York.
The discussions spanned numerous critical issues of mutual interest in the region. Prominent topics included peace-making efforts in the Middle East and Yemen.
Furthermore, the upcoming Climate Conference (COP28), hosted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) this year, was a highlight of their dialogue.
The leaders also delved into exploring ways to strengthen collaboration between the UN and the GCC across various sectors, notably in counter-terrorism efforts.
In a related development, Al-Badiwi met with Lord Tariq Ahmad, the UK’s Minister of State for South Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, and the United Nations (UN) at the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office.
This meeting was part of the proceedings of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in the US. Al-Badiwi emphasized the importance of fortifying the ties between the GCC and the UK.
Among the topics discussed was the free trade agreement between the two entities, which stands as a foundational element of their strategic partnership and promises to further their mutual interests.
Al-Badiwi recently expressed the council’s appreciation for the initiatives taken by Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman towards a political resolution in Yemen.
In a television interview with the “Al Arabiya” channel, Al-Badiwi pointed out that “the talks with the Houthi delegation hosted in Riyadh represent a significant step by Saudi Arabia towards achieving peace in Yemen.”
Al-Badiwi further expressed his hope for successful negotiations and the emergence of positive outcomes that contribute to a comprehensive and lasting solution to the Yemeni crisis.
