KUWAIT CITY, July 3: HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah’s tour of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states kicks off Monday and his first stop is the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Expressing his pleasure over the visit, the Prime Minister believes it will further strengthen and deepen the strong relations between Kuwait and the other GCC countries.
In a special statement to the Arab Times, Sheikh Nasser said the exchange of visits between heads of GCC countries helps eliminate obstacles that sometimes hinder efforts to cement ties between the citizens in the region and ensure cooperation, which the Gulf leaders want to achieve to guarantee the realization of their development goals, particularly in the fields of trade and economy.”
His Highness went on to say: “The decisions taken by the GCC leaders in the previous consultative and ordinary summits are clear manifestations of their commitment to work in the interests of the people and to open communication lines between them.”

The Premier added: “I am glad to visit Saudi Arabia and other GCC countries. I think frequent visits between the heads of GCC governments highlight the positive side of the brotherly relations between us. In this regard I agree with His Highness the Prime Minister of Bahrain, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa when he said “such visits enhance cooperation between the GCC countries.”
Sheikh Nasser asserted the relations between Kuwait and Saudi Arabia are deep-rooted in history — thanks to the bonds of kinship and social relations. He cited as an example the stand taken by the Kingdom during the Iraqi invasion and occupation of the country.
Sheikh Nasser said the cooperation between the two countries is a must and there is no alternative. “The unity of the Gulf provided safe haven for all citizens of the Gulf region in the face of turbulent winds blowing from all directions,” he pointed out.

He stressed Kuwait is a fundamental pillar of the GCC and pays attention to constant contacts between the people of ‘one house’ to exchange opinions and seek advice.
In the same context, sources close to Sheikh Nasser say he is confident that his visit to the GCC states will yield positive results. They say his tour will translate everything into reality that was agreed upon during the talks he held with the GCC heads of government who visited Kuwait earlier — the promotion of political, economic and social cohesion and development in the GCC countries.
The premier’s visit to Saudi Arabia is still being discussed in newspaper editorials and articles. It is clear the visit is welcomed both in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia by the people and the parliamentarians through their statements.
In this context, Saudi Ambassador to Kuwait Dr Abdul Aziz Al-Fayez said this visit confirms the strong relations between Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.
He added this visit comes in light of the circumstances surrounding the region and the need for more consultations and coordination.