Al-Makhzoum: Gulf Integration in the Electricity and Water Sectors
Kuwait’s Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy, Dr. Subaih Al-Makhzoum, affirmed that Gulf integration in the electricity and water sectors constitutes a strategic pillar for enhancing energy and water security and boosting the readiness of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states to keep pace with future changes and needs. This statement came during an interview with Minister Al-Makhzoum on the sidelines of his leadership of the Kuwaiti delegation participating in the 31st meeting of the Ministers Committee for Electricity and Water Cooperation among GCC states, hosted by the Kingdom of Bahrain. He noted that the coming phase requires building on achieved cooperation and advancing toward more integrated and sustainable joint projects and initiatives, adding that the shared destiny and integrated interests uniting GCC member states provide a solid foundation for expanding electricity and water sector cooperation to broader horizons and transforming common challenges into opportunities for development and enhanced preparedness.
He expressed his conviction that developing the power grid interconnection system and proceeding with studies on water interconnection projects represent a strategic investment in the security and sustainability of resources, serving as a cornerstone for a safer, more stable, and prosperous future for the GCC states and their peoples.
The meeting discussed several agenda items aimed at strengthening joint Gulf cooperation and integration pathways in the electricity and water sectors. Foremost among these were updates on the GCC power grid interconnection and ways to develop it and enhance its utilization, as well as monitoring the work of the GCC Power Grid Interconnection Authority to support the reliability and stability of electrical systems and raise the level of coordination and integration among GCC states.
The meeting also reviewed the progress of several joint GCC committees concerned with water resources, conservation of electricity and water consumption, consumer services, and new and renewable energy. Additionally, it focused on monitoring joint programs, initiatives, and events, and enhancing the exchange of expertise and experiences among member states in relevant fields.
In the water sector, the meeting discussed updates on water interconnection among GCC states, including a study on the feasibility of establishing water interconnection projects between GCC countries, and followed up on developments in bilateral water interconnection efforts to strengthen Gulf coordination and integration in the water sector and support joint endeavors aimed at enhancing water security and raising preparedness to face future challenges.
The meeting also reviewed several upcoming Gulf initiatives and programs in the electricity and water sectors, including the Unified Gulf Forum for Electricity and Water Regulators for 2027, the Gulf participation in relevant regional and international conferences and events, and the follow-up on the implementation of several decisions of the Supreme Council aimed at strengthening cooperation among GCC states.
