Gulf foreign ministers pledge support for Syria's stability

The foreign ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) affirmed support on Thursday for Syria's stability, security and the country's transitional process.

The GCC's top diplomats held an extraordinary meeting in Kuwait to discuss developments in Syria and Lebanon.

A final statement issued following the meeting reiterated support for all efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive and inclusive transitional process “to fulfil the aspirations of the Syrian people for stability, development and a dignified life.”

The statement stressed that Syria's security and stability are “fundamental pillars of regional security.”

It welcomed “steps taken to ensure the safety of civilians, prevent bloodshed, achieve national reconciliation, preserve Syrian state institutions and resources, and decision to dissolve militias and armed factions, with the state being the sole authority to bear arms.”

The statement urged all parties and components of the Syrian people “to unite their efforts, prioritize national interests, uphold national unity and initiate an inclusive national dialogue to achieve the aspirations of the Syrian people for security, stability, development and prosperity.”

Established in Riyadh on May 25, 1981, the GCC consists of six member states: Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman.

Bashar Assad, Syria's leader for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia after anti-regime groups took control of the capital Damascus on Dec. 8, ending the Baath Party's regime, which had been in power since 1963.