Amin (GCC): Food security is a strategic priority and a fundamental pillar of joint Gulf cooperation
Manama, Sept 3 (KUNA) -- Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jassem Al-Bedaiwi affirmed today, Thursday, that the agricultural system and food security framework in GCC member states constitute a strategic priority and a fundamental pillar in the course of joint Gulf cooperation. This was stated in a speech delivered by Al-Bedaiwi during the 38th meeting of the GCC Committee for Agricultural Cooperation and Food Security, held under the chairmanship of Bahrain’s Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, Engineer Wael Al-Mubarak, and attended by the ministers responsible for agriculture and food security in the GCC states, including Kuwait’s State Minister for Development and Sustainability, Dr. Reem Al-Faleh.
Al-Bedaiwi noted that this emphasis stems from the GCC states’ interest in developing agricultural and food production, enhancing the sustainability and efficient use of natural resources, raising their capacity to meet food needs, and strengthening their readiness to face all changes and challenges.
He extended his highest expressions of gratitude, appreciation, and thanks to King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain, President of the current term of the Supreme Council, for hosting the meeting in Bahrain, and for the facilitations and support provided and continued by the Kingdom to ensure the success of the Council’s work, as well as for the support and attention accorded by the Bahraini King and the leaders of the GCC member states to joint Gulf cooperation in all fields.
He clarified that the focus on developing agricultural and food production was reflected in the outcomes of the 19th Consultative Meeting of the Supreme Council held in Jeddah on April 28, 2026, and the directives issued therein to enhance the GCC states’ readiness and capacity to confront crises and challenges, including the study of establishing strategic Gulf storage zones.
In the same context, Al-Bedaiwi pointed to the landmark initiatives and programs underway in the fields of agriculture and food security across the GCC states, which embody their firm commitment to strengthening food security and building a sustainable Gulf food system capable of facing challenges and changes. He noted that the United Arab Emirates has enhanced the use of innovation and agricultural technologies to develop specific crops that support local production sustainability, in collaboration with the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA). Meanwhile, the Kingdom of Bahrain continues its efforts to develop the agricultural sector, support local production, and advance agricultural projects.
He also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s work to strengthen its strategic food reserves, develop an early warning system, support sustainable agricultural production, and reduce food loss and waste. Oman continues to implement programs and projects aimed at increasing local production, developing value chains, and enhancing private sector participation. Qatar is steadily implementing its National Food Security Strategy 2030, while Kuwait is working to support agricultural production and strengthen its strategic food reserves.
Al-Bedaiwi emphasized that these efforts constitute a key contributor to achieving the targets of the Gulf Food Security Strategy and enhancing the GCC states’ capacity to build a more integrated, resilient, and sustainable Gulf food system. (End) K.N.A. / T.M.A.
