Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef highlights role of localization in GCC job creation

• Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, stressed that recognition is not only an honor but also a responsibility to continue launching initiatives that advance sustainable development and empower Gulf citizens.

Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, stated that the annual meetings honoring pioneering projects and figures in the fields of civil service, labor, and social affairs across Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries serve as a platform to uphold the values of hard work, creativity, and social responsibility. He noted that the event also provides an opportunity to renew partnerships between the public and private sectors, as well as civil society institutions, in the service of society and humanity, Al Qabas newspaper reported.

This came in a speech delivered by Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef during a ceremony attended by relevant ministers from the GCC states, held on the sidelines of the 11th meeting of the Committee of Ministers of Social Affairs and Development.

At the beginning of his speech, Al-Yousef welcomed the ministers and heads of civil service, human resources, development, and labor agencies from the GCC countries to Kuwait. He prayed for the success of the meetings and for further accomplishments for the nations and peoples of the GCC. He added that the honor “reflects the importance the Gulf countries place on supporting competencies and strengthening the path of joint action.”

Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef stressed that the gathering stands as a testimony of support for the honored groups and affirms the importance of social and labor work and administrative competencies on the GCC agenda. He expressed his appreciation to GCC Secretary-General Jassim Al-Budaiwi, his team, the Director-General of the Executive Office of the Council of Ministers of Labor and Social Affairs, and the working teams in member states for their professional efforts that produced achievements welcomed by all ministries concerned.

He praised the institutions and companies supporting the Executive Office’s activities, celebrated for the first time this year, noting that their contributions reflect true community partnership and mark a qualitative step towards deeper sectoral integration, development, and service to Gulf citizens.

The ceremony honored entities advancing localization and job creation programs, alongside distinguished labor figure Hind Al-Sabeeh, recognized for pioneering reforms that strengthened institutional performance and community service.

Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef noted that the event also recognizes leading institutions in the fields of social and civil service that have contributed selflessly to supporting communities through humanitarian and development initiatives. It further honors prominent social figures whose charitable deeds serve as enduring examples of generosity and public service.

He commended the awarding of the GCC Medal for Civil and Administrative Service to distinguished talents across member states, describing it as “a unique Gulf initiative that fosters a culture of excellence and institutional innovation. It is a symbol of appreciation for achievements in planning, management, digital transformation, and civil service.”

Concluding his remarks, Sheikh Fahad congratulated the honorees, stressing that recognition is not only an honor but also a responsibility to continue launching initiatives that advance sustainable development and empower Gulf citizens. He thanked the ministers, the Secretary-General, and the Executive Office for their role in organizing the event.

For his part, GCC Secretary-General Jassim Al-Budaiwi emphasized that honoring administrative competencies and pioneering institutions strengthens sustainable development and reflects the spirit of Gulf cooperation.

He also said the initiative affirms the region’s commitment to supporting creative individuals and institutions, particularly those promoting Emiratization, entrepreneurship, and the empowerment of Gulf citizens through employment and innovation.

Follow The Times Kuwait on X, Instagram and Facebook for  the latest news updates