Al-Badawi: Our ambition for Gulf media extends to consolidating the regional and international status of GCC countries

- Gulf media has proven since the onset of Iranian aggression that it is equal to the demands of national responsibility.

- It has presented an exemplary model of responsible journalism during crises.

Jassem Al-Bedaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), stated in Manama on Wednesday that “our ambition for Gulf media does not stop at the boundaries of excellence and leadership; rather, it extends to becoming an active force in shaping awareness, generating influence, and consolidating the position of our Council member states in the regional and international landscape.”

This remark was made during Al-Bedaiwi’s speech at the 29th meeting of the GCC Ministers of Media, held under the chairmanship of Bahrain’s Minister of Information, Dr. Ruzan Al-Naimi, and attended by the media ministers of the GCC member states, including Omar Al-Omar, Minister of State for Communications and Information Technology and Acting Minister of Information and Culture.

Al-Bedaiwi emphasized that “our shared responsibility requires us to make our media a unified, confident, and professionally influential Gulf voice, capable of defending our countries’ interests, safeguarding their achievements, and highlighting the civilizational and developmental progress attained by our nations. It must align with the aspirations of our wise leadership and reflect to the world the reality that our countries represent a steadfast model of stability, security, progress, and prosperity.”

He strongly condemned the terrorist attacks launched by the Houthi militia against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including the targeting of holy sites, which constitute a blatant violation of international laws and norms. He affirmed full solidarity with the Kingdom in all measures it takes to protect its security and sovereignty.

In this context, he expressed pride and admiration for the media outlets in the GCC member states, which have proven since the “onset of Iranian aggression against our countries” that they are equal to the demands of national responsibility. They have been present at the heart of the event, standing alongside our brave Gulf armed forces in a single trench, defending the truth, debunking misleading narratives, and countering biased rumors with professionalism and competence.

He noted that Gulf media, through its pioneering institutions and distinguished national cadres, has presented an honorable model of responsible journalism during crises. It has combined rapid response with information accuracy and transparent presentation, maintaining effective and reliable communication with the public. Thus, it has served as a voice for truth, a source of trust and reassurance, and a solid support for our domestic front.

He stated that this honorable performance confirms that our Gulf media is not merely a conduit for events, but an authentic partner in protecting our countries’ security and stability, embodying their unity and the cohesion of their peoples, and safeguarding their achievements in the face of challenges.

He also mentioned that the GCC member states have achieved advanced media presence in recent years, based on established media institutions, distinguished national competencies, growing capabilities in content production and digital media, and accelerated investment in modern technologies, including the use of artificial intelligence in translation, newsroom support, automation of media workflows, and content creation. This has been confirmed by numerous statistics and studies.

He added that the status achieved by the GCC member states, along with the transformations and achievements they are witnessing and their growing presence on various regional and international issues, empowers Gulf media to enhance its regional and international presence and highlight the visions, positions, and initiatives championed by our countries. Indeed, our expertise and achievements form a strong foundation for transitioning Gulf media to a more integrated, innovative, and influential stage, thereby strengthening the presence of our Gulf media message and showcasing our shared Gulf accomplishments.

He noted that, in this context, efforts related to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Media Content Guidelines hold particular significance as a practical step toward enhancing content quality, preserving Gulf identity and values, and providing a common ground that responds to the rapid developments in the media landscape.

He expressed his anticipation for the decisions and recommendations of the 29th meeting of GCC Ministers of Information, which he said would constitute an important addition to the trajectory of Gulf media cooperation and propel it toward broader horizons of integration and excellence.