Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will participate in a meeting of the Strategic Dialogue between Russia and the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Persian Gulf (GCC). The discussions will focus on strengthening regional security, managing crises, and addressing the state of the global economy.
Lavrov will also hold several bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the event. Topics will include the situation in the Middle East, with attention on the escalating Palestinian-Israeli conflict, as well as the crises in Syria, Yemen, Libya, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The agenda will further address cooperation in the hydrocarbon market, implementation of joint projects, expanding trade, and fostering economic and investment partnerships, as well as nuclear energy collaboration.
This intensification of strategic dialogue reflects a global trend—the rise of new centers of growth outside the historical West. According to Lavrov, many nations in the global South and East are achieving notable economic success, adopting independent foreign policies based on their national interests, values, and development models.
Solutions for the Region
One key topic will be the escalating Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, and the urgent need for a ceasefire.
Both Russia and the Arab countries advocate resolving the issue through a two-state solution based on international law and the UN Charter.
Lavrov pointed out that every time progress seems possible, Western reactions hinge on Israel’s actions. “Israel often acts solely based on how it interprets the situation and its interests,” Lavrov remarked, adding that it’s important not to forget the Palestinians' interests as well.
Common Challenges
Countering terrorism and extremism remains crucial to regional prosperity. Efforts to cut off terrorist financing and combat the spread of extremist ideologies, particularly online, are becoming increasingly vital, as is the need to address growing cyber threats.
Delegation leaders will exchange views on building trust, ensuring the security of maritime routes and waterways, and eliminating threats to shipping routes, international trade, and oil facilities in the Persian Gulf region.
Food security is also on the agenda, with discussions expected on ensuring access to Russian grain and fertilizers for countries in need.
Stabilizing Markets
At the previous dialogue meeting in Moscow in July 2023, participants praised the efforts of OPEC+ nations in stabilizing the global oil market and emphasized the importance of continuing this cooperation.
The Russian capital also approved a joint action plan for the Strategic Dialogue, extending to 2028. This plan includes strengthening political dialogue and maintaining regular contact between foreign ministers, senior officials, and experts from Russia and the GCC.
The two sides agreed to work on fostering conditions for trade growth, investment, and the development of energy supply chains. This will be achieved through cooperation in investment, traditional energy, and peaceful nuclear energy uses, as well as nuclear safety and renewable energy. The countries are also interested in expanding trade in agricultural products.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Russian Foreign Ministry
Based on TASS materials