Gulf Weeks illuminate the GCC’s journey of success and growth

• Gulf Weeks activities held alongside the 45th session of the GCC Supreme Council Summit in Kuwait highlight the achievements of GCC, its rich history and the media’s role in fostering unity and integration, said Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi.

Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, Kuwait’s Minister of Information, Culture, and State for Youth Affairs, stated that the Gulf Weeks activities held alongside the 45th session of the GCC Supreme Council Summit showcase the achievements of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) across various fields. These events highlight the GCC’s rich history, strategic collaboration, and ongoing development, Al Rai newspaper reported.

This statement was made during the launch ceremony of the Gulf Weeks on Friday, attended by Dr. Noura Al-Mashaan, the Minister of Public Works and Chairperson of the Supreme Committee for the Preparation of the GCC Summit, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah, the Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood Affairs, Jassem Al-Budaiwi, GCC Secretary-General, as well as several ambassadors from Gulf countries and Kuwaiti officials.

Minister Al-Mutairi conveyed the greetings of His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-JaberAl-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, and His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Al-Abdullah, the Prime Minister, expressing their wishes that “all our efforts will be crowned with success in serving the goals and aspirations of our beloved nations and loyal peoples.”

He noted that the GCC countries have made significant progress in achieving the objectives outlined in the Council’s statute, strengthening bonds of brotherhood, and enhancing political, media, economic, commercial, security, defense, and regional cooperation.

He highlighted that the Gulf Weeks, along with their seminars, exhibitions, artistic performances, and various events running until November 30, aim to address issues and concerns impacting Gulf citizens and shaping their present and future. These activities also provide an opportunity for direct interaction among members of the Gulf family, fostering closer bonds and strengthening ties of love between the GCC countries and their peoples.

He said, “We proudly recall the remarkable and tangible achievements of the GCC across various fields and levels, which reflect the wise policies of the GCC leaders. Their guidance has propelled the journey of cooperation to fulfill the aspirations of their peoples, multiply accomplishments, deepen ties, and solidify the unity of destiny among them.”

He added, “Your valued participation in the Gulf Weeks, hosted this time by the State of Kuwait, delivers an important message to inform the Gulf public about the significant achievements realized. It also underscores the role of Gulf media in promoting interconnectedness and integration among the peoples and nations of the GCC, who proudly remember this unique journey of accomplishments.”

Minister Al-Mutairi extended his heartfelt gratitude to Jassem Al-Budaiwi, the Secretariat staff, and the organizers of the Gulf Weeks for their excellent preparation and efforts. He expressed hope that all efforts would be crowned with success and looked forward to “creating more opportunities and joint initiatives to advance the development of our nations.”

For his part, Al-Budaiwi expressed profound thanks and deep gratitude to His Highness the Amir of the country, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God protect him, for his unwavering support and generous directives aimed at advancing joint Gulf cooperation alongside the leaders of the GCC countries.

Al-Budaiwi said, “It is a pleasure that the State of Kuwait is hosting the activities of the Gulf Weeks accompanying the 45th Gulf Summit, which will take place in early December. This reflects the interest and generous care of His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God protect him, and His Highness the Crown Prince, Sheikh Sabah Khalid Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, may God protect him, in advancing the GCC’s journey.”

He added, “This initiative aligns with the lofty aspirations and directives of the leaders of the GCC countries and implements the Supreme Council’s decision from its 35th session in December 2014 in Doha, Qatar. That decision called for the annual organization of Gulf Weeks in each GCC country to introduce citizens to the council’s achievements and progress across various fields.”

He noted, “Since its establishment, the GCC has consistently taken significant steps toward integration among its member states. This has resulted in notable successes and joint Gulf projects, enabling the member states to enhance the welfare, stability, prosperity, security, and safety of their people. These accomplishments have also positioned the GCC as a prominent player globally, with progress reflected in international rankings and statistics.”

GCC countries economic destination for foreign investments

He continued, “The GCC countries have especially become an economic destination for foreign investments, driven by a forward-looking vision to establish a strong and diversified economy. This vision ensures sustainable growth and creates job opportunities for the youth of the region.”

Al-Budaiwi emphasized that the GCC leaders prioritize deepening and strengthening the bonds of brotherhood among their peoples. These ties are a cornerstone for achieving the council’s noble goals and fostering unity among Gulf citizens. He added, “Kuwait’s commitment to this shared vision is evident, as it has hosted two Gulf events in less than a week, in line with the Gulf Summit.”

He pointed out that last week, Kuwait inaugurated the GCC Pavilion at the Abdullah Al-Salem Cultural Center. The pavilion showcases the GCC’s achievements from its inception to the present day.

He stressed that such events play a crucial role in reinforcing these bonds and provide unique platforms for communication and interaction among GCC countries. They highlight the council’s achievements in various fields, including politics, economy, security, military affairs, heritage, and culture.

He stated, “These events not only reflect our accomplishments but also embody our shared Gulf identity and commitment to strengthening unity and integration. They align with the leaders’ aspirations and ambitious visions for a brighter future for the GCC and its people. We hope these initiatives will achieve their intended goals.”

Al-Budaiwi thanked minister Al-Mutairi and the Ministry of Information team for their efforts in coordinating with the General Secretariat during the planning and preparation of the Gulf Weeks events. He also extended his gratitude to all participating entities in Kuwait for their support in hosting these activities.

Short film on journey and key achievements of GCC nations

During the ceremony, a short film was screened, showcasing the journey and key achievements of the GCC countries across various sectors. The Television Arts Ensemble performed a musical program featuring national, Gulf, and heritage songs in various traditional styles.

Additionally, Salwa Al-Gharni, head of the preparation team for the Gulf Weeks events, gave a presentation outlining the planning process and the 30 scheduled activities running until November 30. These include musical performances, lectures on women’s empowerment and disability issues, joint military initiatives, cybersecurity, and the accomplishments of the Gulf Common Market.

Al-Gharni also noted that the events feature a photo exhibition, workshops, skydiving performances, a Gulf Child event, and a media dialogue session with the GCC Secretary-General.