Al-Omar: Ensuring Continuity of Vital Services Under All Circumstances After Participating in Gulf Postal Meeting

State Minister for Communications and Information Technology Affairs and Acting Minister of Information and Culture, Omar Al-Omar, emphasized on Sunday the importance of strengthening cooperation and integration among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in the postal and telecommunications sectors, and of unifying efforts to develop digital infrastructure, enhance service efficiency, and improve readiness to face rapid technological challenges and changes.

Speaking to KUNA after participating in the 30th meeting of the GCC Ministers of Postal and Telecommunications Affairs, held in the Bahraini capital Manama, Al-Omar stated that the meeting represents an important milestone for continuing joint Gulf work, coordinating policies and regulatory frameworks, and developing initiatives that contribute to enhancing the competitiveness of the telecommunications sector and the digital economy in GCC countries.

He clarified that the meeting addressed several strategic topics, foremost among them strengthening the security and continuity of telecommunications networks and digital infrastructure, and developing mechanisms for joint coordination and response to telecommunications incidents and emergencies. These efforts aim to raise operational readiness levels and ensure the continuity of vital services under all circumstances.

Al-Omar pointed out that a prominent file discussed was the project to reduce international roaming service prices among GCC countries. He reaffirmed the importance of continuing efforts to develop telecommunications services and provide more efficient and competitive solutions for citizens and residents, aligning with users’ aspirations and enhancing digital connectivity among GCC states.

He added that the meeting also discussed developing legal and regulatory frameworks for internet-based applications and services, mitigating the risks associated with digital services and social media, studying data flows, interconnecting Gulf telecommunications networks, and developing international links. These measures support infrastructure efficiency and enhance the GCC’s position in the digital economy.

Regarding the postal sector, Al-Omar stressed the importance of developing the Gulf postal service system, strengthening integration among postal authorities, and leveraging modern technologies to keep pace with the rapid growth in e-commerce and logistics. He noted that developing this sector is a key pillar for improving service quality and diversifying economic activities.

He highlighted the importance of utilizing artificial intelligence technologies to develop the telecommunications and information technology sector, improve beneficiary experiences, and enhance operational efficiency, while adhering to data protection and privacy requirements. He affirmed that digital transformation has become a fundamental pillar in developing government and economic services.

Al-Omar reiterated Kuwait’s commitment to continuing its active participation in the work of specialized GCC technical committees and working groups, and to supporting joint initiatives and projects that enhance digital integration, facilitate knowledge exchange, develop national capabilities, and achieve the GCC’s strategic objectives in the postal and telecommunications sectors.

He expressed his appreciation to the Kingdom of Bahrain, a fraternal country, for hosting the meeting and its excellent organization, commending the efforts of the GCC Secretariat General and the relevant technical committees in following up on the implementation of joint decisions and initiatives. He looked forward to the meeting’s outcomes contributing to further progress and integration among GCC member states.