GCC and Switzerland hold first ministerial meeting to boost strategic partnership

Jassem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), stated that the first joint ministerial meeting between the GCC and Switzerland is a significant step toward strengthening political dialogue and consultation between the two sides, opening new horizons for advancing relations to higher and more effective levels.

He made these remarks during the ministerial meeting held in New York, chaired by Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani and Swiss Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, with the participation of GCC foreign ministers.

Albudaiwi noted that relations between the GCC and Switzerland have seen notable progress this year, especially following the signing of a memorandum of understanding to establish a strategic dialogue last January. He expressed the Council’s hope to translate this memorandum into practical initiatives that advance shared interests.

Joint action plan and expanded cooperation

The Secretary-General highlighted the preparation of a draft joint action plan between the two sides, which includes proposals for cooperation in political, cultural, developmental, and humanitarian fields. He looked forward to completing the necessary steps for its adoption soon, in a move that would further strengthen bilateral relations.

Regional and international positions

Albudaiwi reviewed the challenges faced by GCC countries since February 28, 2026, as a result of ballistic missile and drone attacks launched by Iran and its proxies, which targeted vital infrastructure and caused both human and material losses, despite the GCC states’ non-involvement in the war and their efforts to mediate and de-escalate tensions.

He stressed that disruptions to navigation and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz have impacted the entire world, leading to higher energy prices and supply chain disruptions, and affirmed that the security of Gulf waterways is an international concern. He called for Iran’s full compliance with UN Security Council Resolution 2817, an end to attacks, and the restoration of normal maritime navigation.

Palestinian issue and call for Swiss recognition

The Secretary-General reiterated the centrality of the Palestinian cause and the need to end the Israeli occupation and establish an independent Palestinian state along the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, in line with the Arab Peace Initiative and international legitimacy resolutions. He also expressed the GCC’s hope that Switzerland would recognize the State of Palestine in support of a two-state solution.

In closing, Albudaiwi expressed hope that the first ministerial meeting would launch a new phase in GCC-Swiss relations, building on existing understanding and cooperation to elevate the partnership to more ambitious levels.