Establishment of the Council of Gulf Countries (CGC)
Toward a Unified Diplomatic, Security, Economic, and Mobility Architecture for the Gulf Region
Table of Contents
Executive Summary
This proposal presents a visionary framework for the establishment of a modern, cohesive, and strategically empowered political and diplomatic architecture for the six member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC): Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman. By drawing inspiration from the highly successful model of the European External Action Service (EEAS), this initiative seeks to elevate Gulf diplomacy, security coordination, crisis response, and global engagement to an unprecedented level.
At the core of this vision is the creation of the Council of Gulf Countries (CGC) and its dedicated operational entity, the CGC External Action Service (CGC-EAS). Together, these institutions will serve as the Gulf’s unified diplomatic arm.
To complement these institutional advancements, the proposal introduces the Gulf Unified Mobility & Visa System (GUMVS). Modeled after the European Schengen Visa framework, the GUMVS will provide a single-entry visa valid across all CGC member countries.
I. Strategic Rationale for Establishing the CGC and CGC-EAS
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region stands at a pivotal juncture. Heightened geopolitical competition, shifting alliances, and economic transitions demand a more integrated structure. The CGC and CGC-EAS provide a solution tailored to the region’s long-term strategic aspirations.
The creation of the CGC and CGC-EAS will:
- Expand Gulf influence globally, ensuring member states speak with a unified voice.
- Standardize diplomatic engagement and eliminate fragmentation.
- Strengthen collective security through improved coordination on defense and cybersecurity.
- Enhance crisis and humanitarian response for rapid joint action.
- Boost economic diversification and global investments.
- Facilitate unified trade and mobility policies.
II. The Council of Gulf Countries (CGC)
The CGC represents an evolution of regional cooperation, expanding the scope and authority of the existing GCC framework. It is envisioned as a supra-governmental body enabling the six nations to act collectively on issues of global importance.
Key functions of the CGC include:
- Developing joint foreign policy positions and strategic communications.
- Overseeing collective defense and security frameworks.
- Coordinating global economic outreach and investment diplomacy.
- Managing unified agreements with international organizations.
- Promoting cultural diplomacy and Gulf identity abroad.
At the heart of this structure is its operational arm, the CGC External Action Service (CGC-EAS), serving as the engine of the region’s external engagement.
III. Key Functions of CGC-EAS
Modeled After the EEAS and Expanded for Gulf Realities.
1. Diplomatic Service
A unified global diplomatic corps replacing duplicated embassies with CGC Delegations worldwide.
2. Common Gulf Foreign & Security Policy (CGFSP)
Identifying shared foreign policy goals, standardizing security cooperation, and presenting a unified Gulf position.
3. Policy Coordination
Harmonizing policies between Foreign Ministries, Defense Ministries, and Intelligence bodies to ensure strategic messaging.
4. Global Presence Through CGC Delegations
Operating in all major world capitals and international organizations (UN, EU, ASEAN, etc.) to lower costs and expand influence.
5. Crisis Response & Security Operations
Coordinating peace negotiations, humanitarian deployment, and rapid security coordination.
6. New Feature: Gulf Unified Mobility & Visa System (GUMVS)
A Schengen-Inspired Single Visa System. The CGC will introduce a Gulf Unified Mobility Visa (GUMV) that allows:
- Entry into all CGC permanent member countries with one visa.
- Seamless travel for tourists, investors, and business leaders.
- Shared security databases and pre-clearance protocols.
- Joint immigration officers and unified border systems.
IV. Strategic Objectives of the CGC-EAS
1. Support for Gulf High Representatives
Equipping ambassadors and ministers with comprehensive policy analysis, crisis intervention units, and global public diplomacy support.
2. Reduction of Diplomatic Burden on Member States
Streamlining workloads by delegating shared responsibilities, allowing nations to focus on domestic priorities while maintaining global representation.
3. Handling Major Global Files
Assuming responsibility for major domains including Foreign Affairs, International Security, Strategic Trade, Climate Agreements, and Global Humanitarian Aid.
V. Headquarters in the United States
Selecting the United States as the global headquarters is a geostrategic decision positioning the Gulf at the heart of international diplomacy.
Strategic Benefits:
- Proximity to Power Centers: Immediate access to the UN, global embassies, and policy think-tanks.
- Strengthening Strategic Relations: Serving as a bridge to the US, Canada, and Latin America.
- Access to Global Institutions: Direct links to the IMF, World Bank, and OAS.
- Neutral Operational Ground: Offering stable diplomatic protections and cybersecurity infrastructure.
- Financial Proximity: Access to Wall Street, tech giants, and global investment networks.
VI. Governance and Leadership Structure
1. Permanent Member States
Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman serve as sovereign members with full decision-making authority.
2. Selection of Leadership
- President of the CGC: The highest political figure, representing the bloc internationally (rotating every 4-5 years).
- High Representative for Foreign Affairs & Security: The chief diplomat coordinating joint security and foreign policy.
- Secretary-General of CGC-EAS: The executive head managing operations and staff.
3. Cooperative Partner Countries
Non-executive partners (e.g., US, UK, EU, Japan) that strengthen global alliances without altering core Gulf decision-making power.
VII. Operational Mechanism of the CGC System
1. Policy-Making Workflow
From the President setting priorities, to national alignment, CGC-EAS drafting policies, and final Council approval via consensus or Qualified Majority Voting.
2. Role of CGC Delegations
Representing the Gulf as a single entity to promote economic agendas, identify partners, and negotiate international treaties.
3. Security and Intelligence Cooperation
A shared Security and Intelligence Board (SIB) for border control, counterterrorism, maritime defense, and cyber defense.
4. Implementation of GUMVS
Utilizing a unified biometric database, standardized vetting, and interoperable immigration technologies to create a seamless mobility zone.
VIII. Official Name Recommendation
“Council of Gulf Countries External Action Service (CGC-EAS)”
The Unified Diplomatic, Security, Economic, and Mobility Arm of the Gulf Region
This name reflects the institution’s comprehensive mandate. "Council of Gulf Countries" defines the political union, while "External Action Service" signifies the operational body responsible for international engagement. It mirrors globally recognized structures for clarity, authority, and modern identity.
IX. Conclusion
The establishment of the CGC and CGC-EAS represents a historic leap forward. At a moment of shifting global power, the Gulf nations have the opportunity to rise as a unified, influential force.
By harmonizing foreign policy and introducing the transformative GUMVS visa system, this framework reshapes the identity and trajectory of the region. It empowers the Gulf to define its future, project stability, and establish itself as an indispensable actor in world affairs.
The CGC and CGC-EAS are the instruments through which this legacy can be realized, marking the beginning of a new era of Gulf strength, unity, and global relevance.
