GCC and ASEAN leaders call for permanent ceasefire in Gaza

Leaders attending the Conference also called for the provision of humanitarian aid, relief goods, as well as services and necessities to the people in Gaza.

In the statement, the GCC and ASEAN leaders called on the parties to the conflict to protect civilians and comply with international humanitarian law, in particular the principles and provisions of the Geneva Conventions on the Protection of Civilians in Time of War. The statement also called for the immediate and unconditional release of hostages and detained civilians, especially women, children, the sick and the elderly, and urged all parties to work towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

GCC and ASEAN leaders also expressed support for efforts to restore the Middle East peace process and resolve conflicts between Israel and neighboring countries based on international law.

In his opening speech at the Conference, as ASEAN Chair in 2023, Indonesian President Joko Widodo also called for an end to violence in Gaza in accordance with international law.

For his part, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reaffirmed the kingdom's support for efforts to achieve a just solution to the Palestinian cause. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed deep concern over the escalating violence in Gaza and called for the protection of innocent civilians suffering.

Regarding relations with ASEAN, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said that Saudi Arabia wishes to strengthen relations with ASEAN countries in all fields. Although the GCC and ASEAN established relations in 1990, this conference is the first summit of the two blocs to optimize cooperation between the two regional blocs.

The summit is seen as an opportunity for Southeast Asian leaders to seek support from Gulf countries on issues related to energy security. At the summit, ASEAN and GCC leaders will discuss ways to strengthen ties and expand cooperation into new and emerging areas such as the green economy and the digital economy.