GCC leaders focus on well-being of citizens during 11th GCC Social Affairs meeting
Over six million GCC citizens benefited from social protection programs; meeting aims to strengthen cooperation amid social challenges
Acting Undersecretary of Kuwait’s Ministry of Social Affairs, Dr. Khaled Al-Ajmi, at the opening session of the 11th meeting of the Committee of Undersecretaries of Ministries of Social Affairs from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states today highlighted the unity of the Gulf and the citizens’ well-being in all development efforts.
In his address, Al-Ajmi emphasized that social development is a cornerstone of stability and nation-building and expressed pride in Kuwait hosting the meeting, which brought together representatives from all GCC states, saying it represents more than an agenda or set of recommendations — it is a practical embodiment of people-first priorities.
Al-Ajmi underlined that development extends to families, youth, the elderly, and vulnerable groups, ensuring that the Gulf remains a model of social progress.
He affirmed Kuwait’s commitment to supporting joint Gulf initiatives and leveraging all capabilities to make these meetings a springboard for deeper cooperation and integration. “Let us turn our words into the titles of a brighter tomorrow,” he stated, urging participants to craft strategies that reflect a shared destiny, reports Al-Jarida daily.
The Assistant Secretary-General for Economic and Development Affairs of the GCC, Khaled Al-Sunaidi, echoed these remarks, noting that the meeting underscores the GCC’s commitment to social development as a key pillar of stability.
Al-Sunaidi highlighted the GCC’s social achievements, including progress in social protection, welfare, insurance, women’s empowerment, and care for persons with disabilities and the elderly.
He reported that the number of beneficiaries of social protection programs exceeded six million in 2023, marking a 12 percent increase over previous years.
Al-Sunaidi also stressed challenges such as the digital divide affecting 15 percent of low-income households, economic transformations, and the effects of global crises on vulnerable groups.
He emphasized that the committee meeting provides an opportunity to discuss social work cooperation, consider proposals, issue recommendations, and submit them to the ministers at their next session.
He concluded by thanking His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and the GCC leaders for their support, as well as the Kuwaiti Ministry of Social Affairs for its hospitality and excellent organization, and praised Qatar for its role during its presidency in 2024.
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