GCC defence cooperation stressed

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Dubai Ruler Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum has today stressed the importance of bolstering defence between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states.
Speaking on the sidelines of the International Defence Expo and Conference (IDEX2015) in Abu Dhabi, the UAE, he stressed the need to build on joint defence strives which have been achieved so far.
He underlined the importance of strengthening defence cooperation as a guarantor of security and stability for the GCC member states to focus on development and overcome the impediments which curb their efforts to achieve further progress and prosperity for their peoples.
The UAE leader described joint defence cooperation as a top priority in light of the current challenges which are unfolding in the region and the whole world. "All countries are today in the same trench in confronting the scourge of terrorism which is threatening international security and peace".
He stressed the importance for his country to strengthen its armed forces and bolster defence capabilities so as to have more clout and protect its territories, highlighting growing cooperation with friendly countries in confronting joint challenges amid regional upheavals rocking parts of the Arab World.