Jakarta:Bahrain hosted the 10th meeting of the Permanent Preparatory Committee at the ministerial level of the Economic and Development Affairs Authority, chaired by Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy. This event was part of Bahrain's presidency of the 46th session of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
According to Bahrain News Agency, the meeting was attended by GCC economy ministers and GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi. The minister conveyed greetings from His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, expressing their wishes for the meeting's success. He emphasized Bahrain's pride in hosting the meeting, which underscores the GCC states' tradition of consultation and coordination.
Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa highlighted the strategic necessity of joint GCC action amidst changing regional circumstances. He noted that GCC states have effectively tackled challenges like market stability and energy security through strong ties, shared visions, and prudent policies, thus maintaining economic resilience.
The minister also addressed the importance of cooperation in countering Iranian attacks and condemned the Iran-backed Houthi militia's actions against Saudi Arabia. He reaffirmed Bahrain's solidarity and support for Saudi Arabia's measures to protect its sovereignty and citizens.
Emphasizing economic integration, Shaikh Salman advocated for expanding free trade agreements to boost trade and investment. He highlighted the directives from GCC leaders to accelerate key projects, including water and electricity interconnections and the completion of the GCC railway, to enhance regional development and prosperity.
The meeting covered topics related to economic cooperation and mechanisms to strengthen coordination among GCC states, aiming to achieve shared development objectives.