LONDON: Regional security is the cornerstone of a joint GCC-UK action plan, it was declared yesterday. It is the main strategic goal outlined in the plan discussed at a meeting between British Foreign Secretary William Hague and GCC foreign ministers in London.

Moreover, the plan is a blueprint to consolidate trade links as well increase scientific and cultural exchanges.

Foreign Minsiter Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa represented Bahrain at the joint ministerial meeting.

GCC Secretary-General Abdulrahman Al Zayani also attended.

The plan will be endorsed at the next ministerial meeting, Bahrain News Agency said.

It will unveil tangible steps to be taken in these directions, with a clear timeline.

The ministers also agreed to hold regular dialogues and meeting to update each other on political and economic developments.

The first joint ministerial meeting was held last September on the sidelines of the 66th session of the UN General Assembly.