GCC Secretary-General: Empowering Young Leaders to Discuss Regional and International Issues is an Investment in Their Nations' Future
GCC Secretary-General Jassem Al-Budaiwi emphasized the importance of empowering young leaders to discuss regional and international issues as an investment in their nations' future, during his meeting with participants in the Young Leaders Program on the sidelines of the Regional Security Summit in Manama.
Translated by Qiyas from السياسة — Original source
Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jassim Al-Buaidi stated that preparing young leaders and empowering them to participate in discussions on regional and international issues constitutes an investment in enhancing their expertise and serves as a cornerstone for building a more prosperous future for their homelands. He emphasized that building the future requires leaders who possess knowledge, can accurately interpret changing circumstances, and embrace shared responsibility in safeguarding peace and supporting development pathways.
This came during Al-Buaidi’s meeting with participants in the “Young Leaders Program” on the sidelines of the 22nd Regional Security Summit, “Manama Dialogue 2026,” held yesterday, Saturday, in the Bahraini capital, Manama.
He clarified that the rapid developments occurring in the region and the world highlight the importance of preparing young leaders to understand the interconnection between security, development, and diplomacy, and to enhance their capacity to analyze challenges, appreciate their repercussions, and formulate appropriate solutions. He also stressed the importance of respecting differing viewpoints and the ability to build mutual understanding.
In this regard, Al-Buaidi affirmed that dialogue among young leaders from various countries opens avenues for exchanging experiences and expanding spaces for trust, contributing to the crystallization of shared perspectives on issues of peace and stability. He pointed out the importance of the program’s provision of direct interaction with senior officials and experts, and of linking theoretical knowledge with practical discussions on the most pressing contemporary issues.
Concluding his remarks, the Secretary-General emphasized that youth aspirations must be coupled with initiative, action, and responsibility, and that the knowledge and expertise they acquire should translate into tangible contributions that benefit their societies. He wished the participants success in their leadership journeys and in contributing to building a future in which the peoples of the region enjoy security and prosperity.
