GCC chief: Council keen on consulting with Iran on regional challenges

Secretary-General of the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jassim Mohammed al-Budaiwi said the council is interested in consulting with Iran on the major challenges facing West Asia.

Budaiwi made the remarks in a phone call with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, during which Budaiwi congratulated Araghchi on his appointment as the new Iranian foreign minister.
Stressing that Iran plays an important role in enhancing peace and stability of the region, Budaiwi said GCC states are interested in consulting with Iran on the major challenges that face the region.
Abbas Araghchi called for a “new phase” of mutual understanding and cooperation between Iran and the GCC.
Araghchi stressed that Iran is keen to promote its “friendly and brotherly” ties with the council and its member states.
Relations between Iran and the GCC should enter a “new phase of mutual understanding and cooperation,” Iran’s foreign minister said.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has pledged that his administration would prioritize bolstering ties with neighbors.
“Under my administration, we will prioritize strengthening relations with our neighbors,” Pezeshkian wrote in an article on July 12.
“We will champion the establishment of a ‘strong region’ rather than one where a single country pursues hegemony and dominance over the others,” he added.