Gulf states are discussing the possiblity of making Egypt an active member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), sources said.
If Egypt’s membership is approved, it will be the third state outside of the Gulf region to the join the council after Jordan and Morocco, which were added in May.
The sources told Kuwaiti newspaper Al-Watan that some Gulf states are enthusiastic about Egypt's potential membership given the country's strategic ties with Gulf countries and its ability to contribute to regional stability. Supporters believe that developments in Iraq and the Iranian intervention in its affairs highlight the importance of the Egypt's participation, the sources added.
During preliminary deliberations Egypt has welcomed the idea of joining the council within the frame of economic, security and cultural cooperation out of a belief in the importance of joint Arab action.
