Recent events have brought the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) into the spotlight, particularly as regional dynamics shift in response to global political changes. The GCC is set to hold its first-ever three-way summit with China and six Gulf countries, signaling a desire for enhanced cooperation amid rising tensions with the United States. Additionally, discussions around trade policies, including the potential impact of U.S. sanctions on Damascus, have further highlighted the bloc's strategic importance in navigating complex international relations.
The Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, established in 1981, comprises six member states: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain. The GCC aims to foster economic, political, and military cooperation among its members, promoting stability and security in the region. The council has played a significant role in addressing regional challenges, including security threats and economic diversification efforts, while also serving as a platform for collective action on issues affecting the Gulf states.
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President Donald Trump is set to visit Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE from May 13 to 16, 2025. This trip marks his first foreign visit of his second term, focusing on strengthening political and economic ties with Gulf leaders amid ongoing regional tensions and investment discussions.
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During a historic meeting in Riyadh, US President Donald Trump urged Syria's interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa to normalize relations with Israel and announced the lifting of all sanctions on Syria. This marks the first direct talks between US and Syrian leaders in 25 years, signaling a potential shift in diplomatic relations.
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ASEAN leaders, alongside China and the Gulf Cooperation Council, are enhancing economic cooperation amid rising U.S. tariffs. The inaugural trilateral summit in Kuala Lumpur focused on free trade agreements, regional stability, and addressing humanitarian issues in Myanmar and Gaza. The upgraded ASEAN-China free trade agreement aims to deepen economic ties and resilience against external pressures.
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On May 27, 2025, Malaysia hosted the inaugural ASEAN-GCC-China Summit in Kuala Lumpur, aiming to enhance economic cooperation amid rising global tensions. Leaders from ASEAN, the Gulf Cooperation Council, and China pledged to deepen trade ties and address mutual concerns, signaling a shift towards greater collaboration in the Global South.
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As of June 9, 2025, citizens of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days. This initiative aims to strengthen ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and follows similar agreements with the UAE and Qatar. The policy is part of China's broader strategy to enhance tourism and economic cooperation.
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The UK is nearing a £1.6 billion trade agreement with Gulf states, raising concerns among farmers and rights groups about animal welfare and human rights standards. The deal could undermine UK agricultural practices and lacks binding commitments on labor rights, prompting calls for caution from various stakeholders.