Doha: Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Albudaiwi stated that the GCC states are eager to expedite the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations with the United Kingdom, expressing hope that the current negotiation round will be the concluding one, paving the way for signing the agreement soon. According to Saudi Press Agency, this announcement came during a joint meeting between the GCC trade ministers and the UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade. The meeting took place alongside the 67th meeting of the Trade Cooperation Committee in Doha, Qatar. It was chaired by Qatar's Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shaikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al Thani, with the participation of UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds and GCC trade ministers. Albudaiwi emphasized that the GCC ministers are actively monitoring the negotiation progress with the UK, underscoring their commitment to achieving a balanced and comprehensive agreement. He also stressed the im portance of both parties exhibiting the necessary flexibility and resolve to overcome any remaining challenges, ensuring that the agreement serves the best interests of all involved.