Abu Dhabi: HE Speaker of the Shura Council Hassan bin Abdullah Al Ghanim highlighted Qatar's dedication to fostering unity among Gulf nations, enhancing cooperative efforts, and preserving the Gulf identity to build a promising future for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This statement was made during the 18th meeting of the Speakers of the Shura, Representatives, National, and Ummah Councils in the GCC, held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. According to Qatar News Agency, His Excellency underscored Qatar's focus on promoting collective Gulf initiatives and maintaining the cultural and historical identity of the GCC countries. He emphasized the Shura Council's pivotal role in advancing Gulf parliamentary collaboration, concluding its leadership of the 17th meeting of GCC legislative council speakers with productive cooperation among member states. This collaboration has achieved several shared objectives aimed at elevating cooperation levels across all spheres. His Excellency also mentioned the Shura Council's efforts in organizing a seminar during his presidency that addressed the preservation of Gulf identity, resulting in recommendations to strengthen cultural and social ties among GCC citizens. He reiterated that these initiatives aim to foster Gulf integration to align with the aspirations of GCC citizens. In a related context, His Excellency highlighted the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in bolstering the GCC's foreign relations, enabling the representation of Gulf perspectives in the international arena to advance shared interests. He also addressed the Palestinian issue amidst ongoing conflict, reaffirming support for Palestinian rights and the establishment of an independent state based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, in line with the Arab Peace Initiative. HE Hassan bin Abdullah Al Ghanim urged continuous Gulf parliamentary backing for Palestinian rights and called on the international community to hold Israel accountable for violations in Gaza. He also condemned Israeli aggression in Lebanon, emphasizing the need for Israel to comply with international resolutions to ensure regional security. Concluding his remarks, HE the Speaker congratulated Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Yamahi on his election as Speaker of the Arab Parliament, expressing confidence in the UAE's leadership in enhancing Gulf parliamentary roles and supporting regional stances on key issues. Speakers from Gulf legislative councils echoed the importance of Gulf integration, development of parliamentary efforts, and unified support for regional and international issues, especially the Palestinian cause. They discussed enhancing Gulf parliamentary cooperation and addressed challenges facing the region, including adopting strategies to strengthen ties with European and Latin American parliaments to support common interests.