UN General Assembly
2008

spotlight — is one of Egypt’s principal concerns, not only because of Egypt’s close relations with the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), but also because of what Egypt represents in terms of strategic depth for its Arab brothers and sisters of the Gulf. Therefore, we follow closely all developments in the region, in particular the recurrent discourse about “new arrangements” there. We affirm that Egypt is working in coordination with members of the GCC with a view to protecting Arab national security and ensuring that any such arrangements — if they come into existence — will represent true security guarantees for all parties. A great deal of work lies ahead of us at this session. This requires open minds and outstretched hands in order to meet the demands and aspirations of our peoples for freedom, justice, dignity, security and peace. Egypt will work throughout this session to advance the components of our vision for the international and regional situation, which I have just elucidated. All of us bear the responsibility for this, just as