When wise and prudent leaders view fraternal cooperation between nations as a source of strength, it grants them more freedom to fully exercise their domestic, regional and international roles. When a wise ruler, and a dynamic and young generation, are at the helm, it means the nation is in good hands. Since Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz assumed the throne, and Prince Mohammed bin Salman was chosen as Crown Prince, new blood has been injected into Saudi state institutions, and its international and regional influence has grown, thus, giving the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) greater strength. On the other hand, since Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed assumed the presidency of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), its economic and international power has increased with the support of the members of the Supreme Council of Rulers of the UAE. This is why the UAE is now an important international player with a prestigious standing among nations.

Consequently, the international and regional presence of the GCC has intensified. There is no doubt that Saudi Arabia and the UAE are the two fundamental pillars of the GCC, whose resilience against division or disintegration has been proven through various events. The events that have transpired since the founding of the GCC in 1981 have demonstrated its strength and stability, such as the Iran-Iraq War when the GCC was in its early years, Saddam Hussein’s invasion of Kuwait, the subsequent defense of Kuwait, efforts to mobilize the world for its liberation, and the so-called ‘Arab Spring’.

Iran tried to exploit these events to destabilize regional security through its intervention in Bahrain, but the GCC military force (the Peninsula Shield Force) was vigilant and ready. These events cannot be viewed as mere political casual moments, as they are rather the foundational steps for the future and a source of strength for the GCC, which the people of the Gulf see as a unifying force in a comprehensive process. This process is embodied in the GCC Charter, which reflects the visions of these peoples and is further strengthened by agreements between member states. These facts reassure the people of the Gulf that the process is proceeding as planned. Regardless of differences in viewpoints, it remains within the same family. This family rests on solid foundations -- shared culture, common language, shared interests, family ties and common destiny.

We all know that there are many opportunists, especially in this era of social media, which has opened the floodgates for everyone to vent their gibberish. What is published on these platforms should not be taken seriously. Facts are gleaned from official statements and positions, as these alone reflect the stances of nations. Hence, the statement of the Saudi Minister of Information was clear, as was the statement of the Saudi Minister of Finance in Davos, where it was emphasized that Emirati officials are brothers and are welcome to visit the Kingdom any time.

The positions of Emirati officials reflected this fraternal spirit. Let us not pay attention to the loud noise on ‘social media’, emanating from obscure names and fake accounts with malicious intentions. Yes, there are countries that wish for a Gulf rift. These countries do not understand how matters are managed within the same family. I would like to remind them that the 2017 crisis between Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE was settled without any external intervention. We all vividly remember the crucial role played by HH the late Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad, may Allah have mercy on him, in resolving that crisis. Despite his illness, his fasting during Ramadan and the need to take his medication on schedule, he tirelessly traveled across those capitals.

HH the late Amir Sheikh SabahAl-Ahmad exerted tremendous efforts until the crisis was resolved, fulfilling the Quranic verse: “As for the scum, it vanishes, [cast] away, but as for that which benefits the people, it remains on earth.” The leaders of the Gulf states are fully aware of what is in the best interest of their people, because they are an integral part of their peoples. The GCC is moving towards integration along a pre-defined path, established by the founding fathers and implemented by current leaders in the spirit of the union stipulated in the founding charter. Differences in viewpoints are a natural part of life, but their positive aspect is that they help to identify and avoid mistakes.

All GCC members believe that the hand of Allah is with the community and its unity. Indeed, the GCC has reached a level of strength that makes it resistant to division. Indeed, it is developing daily towards integration – economically, politically and socially.

Therefore, there will be no foothold for those who seek to dismantle the GCC. The entire Arabian Gulf is a homeland for its people. Saudi Arabia and the UAE are the two jewels of the Gulf crown. The people of the GCC understand that no matter how loud the voices of malice are, they will not be able to harm it or its precious members.