On 5th January 2021, the leaders of KSA, Egypt, UAE, Bahrain and Qatar met at the 41st GCC Summit in Al Ula in Saudi Arabia to sign a document that will make history. Led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia, on behalf of his father King Salman, the leaders of the GCC countries signed the “Al Ula Declaration - the Summit of Sultan Qaboos and Sheikh Sabah.”
This particular declaration marks the unification of the GCC with Qatar. Speaking about the declaration, Mohammed bin Salman stated, “This affirms the importance of the solidarity and stability in the Gulf, Arab and Islamic countries and strengthens the bonds of friendship and brotherhood among our countries and peoples in order to serve their aspirations. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s firm and continuous policy, future plans, and ambitious development vision (the Kingdom Vision 2030) prioritizes a unified and solid Gulf Cooperation Council. In addition to strengthening the Arab and Islamic cooperation in a way that serves the security, stability, and prosperity of our countries and the region.”
Following the event, Saudi foreign minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan also added, “What happened today is the turning of the page on all points of difference and a full return of diplomatic relations.”
The signing of this declaration has bought a 3 year dispute to an end and will see a continuation of all relationships between the countries, including the ability to travel to them.
