Manama: Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam, Speaker of the Council of Representatives and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Parliamentary Division, presided over the 19th periodic meeting of leaders from the Shura, Representatives, National, and Ummah Councils of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The meeting is hosted by the Kingdom of Bahrain from November 11 to 13.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Speaker Al Musallam highlighted that this gathering is not just a routine stage in Gulf parliamentary operations but a clear representation of informed political will and a forward-looking parliamentary vision. The meeting aims to strengthen institutional integration and enhance coordination tools to boost the GCC countries' capabilities to tackle challenges and anticipate the future with confidence.
He emphasized the role of the GCC legislative councils in unified efforts, which remain crucial for development, sound decision-making, and responsible parliamentary diplomacy. This work is grounded in Gulf and Arab principles, serving humanity, fostering stability, and constructing a better future.
The meeting takes place as Bahrain prepares to host the 46th GCC Summit next December, accentuating the summit's heightened role in addressing challenges and promoting collective work mechanisms across developmental, strategic, regional, and international domains impacting security and stability.
Speaker Al Musallam extended greetings from His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, expressing hope for the meeting's success in serving the GCC nations and peoples. He also congratulated Hassan bin Abdullah Al Ghanim on his appointment as Speaker of the Shura Council of Qatar, wishing him success in advancing parliamentary work in Qatar.
Appreciation was also expressed for Saqr Ghobash, Speaker of the Federal National Council of the UAE, for his efforts in enhancing Gulf legislative work and parliamentary coordination. Thanks were extended to the GCC General Secretariat and the secretariats of Bahrain's Shura and Representatives Councils for their exemplary preparation and organization of the meeting.
The parliamentary delegations were led by prominent figures including Saqr Ghobash from the UAE, Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh from Bahrain, Sheikh Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Al Sheikh from Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Khalid bin Hilal Al Mawali from Oman, Hassan bin Abdullah Al Ghanem from Qatar, and Shereeda Abdullah Al Mousherji from Kuwait. Jassim Mohammed Al Budaiwi, Secretary General of the GCC, and Mohammed Ahmed Al Yamahi, President of the Arab Parliament, also participated.
The agenda of the meeting encompassed various economic, social development topics, and other avenues for joint parliamentary cooperation within the GCC.