MUSCAT: It is imperative to remain alert at a time when the world is facing “exceptional” circumstances regionally and internationally, Kuwait’s Defense Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah told his counterparts from the Gulf Arab region on Tuesday.

“As Zionist entity forces step up their attacks across Palestinian territories, it would behoove armed forces from around the region to be “vigilant and prepared” for any potential threats, the Kuwaiti minister underlined during the talks in the Omani capital during the meeting of the 20th session of the Joint Defense Council of the Defense Ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

Such gatherings are instrumental in bolstering “military cooperation” among Gulf Cooperation Council states, he added, saying it is a step forward towards preserving peace and security within the six-member bloc and beyond.

Sheikh Ahmad said, “The highest levels of readiness and vigilance are achieved by working to develop a system of joint military cooperation between the countries of the region based on our firm certainty and great confidence in the capabilities and efficiency of our armed forces in carrying out the various roles, tasks and duties assigned to them.”

In this regard, he appreciated the tireless efforts made by his counterparts in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries to support the bonds of cooperation and joint teamwork between the armed forces. The Kuwaiti official explained that those efforts were resulted in many tangible achievements and contributed to high directives of the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

The State of Kuwait always aspires to the success of such meetings, which aim to achieve cooperation and unify goals, programs and plans among the GCC countries provide room for discussion and consultation on various issues and topics of common interest. Sheikh Ahmad extended his sincere congratulations and blessings to the leadership, government and people of the sister state Sultanate of Oman on the occasion of its 53rd National Day, wishing the Sultanate continued progress, development and prosperity under the wise leadership of Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al-Said.