Peace and stability go hand in hand

Keeping the peace in the Gulf region could never be overstated if the drive for prosperity and development is to be maintained in the future. Stability is critical for all of the countries without exception, and if instability affects one nation, the ramifications would also reach the other countries as well.

Once again, a Gulf leader reiterates a sentiment that many in the region have highlighted before - that the region should not be pushed towards the edges of a new war.

In a recent interview with Sultan Qaboos of Oman, he stated: "All I hope for is that the shadow of war does not envelop this region which is considered to be a lifeline for the global economy since it has the largest oil reserves in the world.

"The region's people seek peace. We want our region to be far away from the disasters of wars. We want it to move in the direction of growth and enjoy prosperity, stability and advancement. All this comes according to an easy formula which is based on our respect for the interests of others just as we ask them to respect our interests in return."

The Gulf region is facing a couple of challenging issues. On one hand, the state of affairs in Iraq is miserable as a final resolution is yet to be attained.

In addition, the ongoing standoff between Iran and the international community over its nuclear programme is equally worrisome. Neither does the region need a state of heightened tensions or the prospect of a new war.

It is unquestionable - not a single country in the region could afford the ills of yet another war. If the entire Gulf region is to enjoy stability, prosperity and growth, efforts should focus on the benefits of peace.