Flights to Qatar from other Gulf States could soon be restored after GCC leaders inked a historic accord at this week’s GCC Summit in AlUla, Saudi Arabia.
Senior representatives of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt and Qatar have signed The AlUla Declaration, marking an end to diplomatic division in the region.
The agreement between the nations will see all relationships resume, including those pertaining to international travel (flights).
“This [agreement] affirms the importance of the solidarity and stability in the Gulf, Arab and Islamic countries and strengthens the bonds of friendship and brotherhood among our countries and peoples in order to serve their aspirations,” said Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s firm and continuous policy, future plans, and ambitious development vision (the Kingdom Vision 2030) prioritises a unified and solid Gulf Cooperation Council.”
He added: “In addition to strengthening the Arab and Islamic cooperation in a way that serves the security, stability, and prosperity of our countries and the region.”
Qatari ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani arrived in Saudi Arabia to a warm welcome, with the summit ending a dispute that started in 2017.
Addressing media at a post-event news conference, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said: “What happened today is the turning of the page on all points of difference and a full return of diplomatic relations.”
