Following a meeting in Riyadh on Thursday, the United States and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) issued a joint statement emphasizing the importance of regional political and economic stability. The statement came after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken participated in a GCC meeting during his visit to Saudi Arabia this week.

The GCC-US Joint Ministerial Meeting on Strategic Partnership was held with the participation of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and foreign ministers from the GCC nations, including Prince Faisal bin Farhan, the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Saudi Arabia. During the meeting, the foreign ministers emphasized the significance of maintaining cooperation among all parties to facilitate regional security, prosperity, and economic growth.

In their joint statement, the ministers highlighted the strong and expanding strategic ties between the United States and the GCC. These ties aim to promote peace, security, stability, integration, and prosperity in the Middle East. The statement reaffirmed the US's enduring commitment to the Gulf region, despite concerns about its declining influence in the Middle East amidst a shifting global landscape where the focus has turned towards competition with China.

The ministers also underscored the importance of combating terrorism and violent extremism on a global scale. They welcomed the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS ministerial meeting held in Riyadh, further demonstrating their collective commitment to countering these threats.

According to reports, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the United States have expressed their commitment to ensuring regional maritime security and safeguarding freedom of navigation. They aim to combat illegal activities at sea that pose a threat to shipping lanes, international trade, and oil installations in the GCC region.

As per the reports, the foreign ministers (FMs) affirmed their dedication to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of nuclear weapons. They called on Iran to fully cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) regarding its nuclear program.

Furthermore, the FMs reportedly commended Saudi Arabia and Iran for their decision to restore diplomatic ties. They emphasized the importance of regional powers adhering to international laws, including the principles outlined in the UN Charter.

The joint efforts of the GCC and the US reflect their shared commitment to maintaining regional stability, promoting cooperation, and upholding international norms and regulations in order to ensure the well-being and security of the Gulf region.

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