Kerry asserts importance of US-GCC partnership

US Secretary of State Johan Kerry asserted Saturday the importance of partnership linking both the US and the Gulf Cooperation Council depending on mutual respect and interest.

During a joint press conference with the Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Adel Al Jubeir, Kerry asserted that Washington is committed to achieving success under this partnership.

Kerry said: “Let me assure everybody that the relationship between the United States and the GCC nations is one that is built on mutual interest, on mutual defence and I think there is no doubt whatsoever in the minds of the countries that make up the GCC that the United States will stand with them against any external threat.”

Jubeir denounced Iran for its “hostile and aggressive stance” against Arab nations, but said he did not believe Washington would act rashly in dealing with Tehran because of the nuclear deal, which was implemented earlier this month and has given it access to billions in formerly frozen assets.

Overall, the United States is very aware of the mischief that Iran’s nefarious activities can do in the region,” Jubeir said.

“I don’t believe the United States is under any illusion as to what type of government Iran is.”

Kerry, who also met Saudi Arabia’s King Salman, the deputy crown prince and the chief negotiator for the Saudi-backed Syrian opposition, said that despite ongoing disagreements over who should attend, an understanding had been reached on how to begin the talks.

He did not elaborate but said the more than 20 nations and groups that make up the international Syria support group would meet almost immediately after the first round of peace negotiations to address any issues that arise in Geneva.

“We are quite confident that there is a way to invite the various interested stakeholders that provides for cohesion and the ability to make the process move forward,” Kerry said.

Source: MENA