RIYADH — As Bahrain prepares to host the 46th Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit on Wednesday, December 3rd, reflections on the regional bloc’s history and future are surfacing. Abdullah Bishara, the first Secretary General of the GCC, emphasized the organization’s vital role in maintaining stability and security across the Gulf region, highlighting core principles that have guided its operations for over four decades.
Bishara, in an interview with Bahraini newspaper “Al-Ayyam,” underscored the importance of respecting national sovereignty, avoiding border disputes, and maintaining non-interference in the internal affairs of member states as foundational tenets of the GCC. His comments come as the six-member organization faces ongoing regional challenges and seeks to strengthen its collective approach to security and economic cooperation.
The GCC: A Pillar of Regional Stability
Bishara served as the GCC’s Secretary General from 1981 to 1993, a period marked by significant geopolitical shifts and the organization’s growing influence. He believes the council remains essential for the future of the Gulf nations, stating that strengthening the entity is crucial for continued stability, security, and prosperity. This sentiment reflects a broader understanding of the GCC as a key instrument for coordinating policy and addressing shared threats.
Early Days and Foundational Principles
The first GCC summit, held in Abu Dhabi, was dubbed the “Summit of Launch and Pride,” with Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan playing a crucial role in establishing the council’s spirit and ambitious goals. Bishara noted that the early focus was on building trust and a shared vision among the member states, laying the groundwork for future collaboration. This initial period was characterized by a commitment to peaceful resolution of disputes and collective security.
Navigating Crisis: The Iraqi Invasion of Kuwait
Bishara identified the Doha Summit held during the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in 1990 as the most challenging period in the GCC’s history. He recounted his efforts to convey a firm message to Iraq, emphasizing the GCC’s unified stance against the aggression. The invasion tested the council’s resolve and ultimately solidified its commitment to defending the sovereignty of its members. This event underscored the importance of a coordinated defense strategy within the region.
However, Bishara also expressed regret over accepting Saddam Hussein’s invitation to a summit in May 1990, describing it as a deeply unsettling experience marked by disrespect and threats towards Gulf states. He witnessed explicit threats against the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait, highlighting a significant misjudgment in diplomatic engagement. This experience served as a cautionary tale regarding engagement with aggressive regional actors.
Current Challenges and Future Outlook
Addressing recent events, Bishara described the October 7th attacks as a “catastrophe,” acknowledging the scale of the response and the ongoing challenges facing the Palestinian cause. He also commented on the complexities of broader Arab cooperation, noting that the previous Arab Cooperation Council (ACC) lacked the strong unifying factors present within the GCC. These factors include a shared destiny, cultural heritage, and long-standing relationships.
Bishara also assessed the economic performance of the GCC, noting that while security and political achievements are evident, economic benefits for citizens have not fully met expectations. This suggests a need for greater focus on economic diversification and inclusive growth within the region. Further economic integration and development are key priorities for the council.
Regarding regional relations, Bishara characterized relations with Iran as “measured,” but cautioned against underestimating its ambitions, particularly concerning Bahrain. He also described Muammar Gaddafi as unpredictable and Ali Abdullah Saleh as prone to underestimating others. These assessments reflect the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding the GCC and the need for careful diplomacy.
Looking ahead, the GCC is expected to continue prioritizing regional security, economic cooperation, and political stability. The upcoming summit in Bahrain will likely focus on addressing these challenges and strengthening the council’s role as a key player in the Middle East. The success of these efforts will depend on maintaining unity among member states and adapting to evolving regional dynamics. The effectiveness of the GCC in navigating these complexities will be closely watched in the coming months.
