Manama: As part of the Kingdom of Bahrain's presidency of the 46th session of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, chaired the 29th extraordinary meeting of the GCC Ministerial Council for Transport. The meeting was held virtually and attended by ministers and senior officials responsible for transport, ports, and logistics sectors across GCC member states.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the meeting reviewed the latest developments in the implementation of the GCC Railway Project and regional logistics integration initiatives, as well as means to enhance joint coordination to ensure the achievement of the project's objectives. In his remarks, the Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications said that the extraordinary meeting was convened in line with the directives and decisions issued by the GCC Supreme Council at the Manama and Jeddah summits, which underscored the strategic importance of the GCC railway project as a key pillar of comprehensive Gulf integration.
He noted that the project extends beyond its economic benefits to encompass broader strategic, security, and social dimensions, particularly in light of the rapidly evolving geopolitical developments in the region. The minister emphasized that railway connectivity and enhanced logistics integration among GCC member states are essential to achieving shared prosperity and strengthening regional economic stability. He stressed the importance of advancing the project and deepening cooperation with the GCC Railways Authority and member states to ensure seamless integration between national railway networks and regional logistics corridors.
Jassim Mohammed Al Budaiwi, Secretary General of the GCC, also addressed the meeting, highlighting the importance of continuing joint efforts to develop transport systems across member states and strengthen integration in infrastructure and logistics services. He noted that the outcomes of the Manama and Jeddah summits had established clear pathways for accelerating implementation of the GCC railway network, supporting economic development, and enhancing connectivity among member states. He added that the current phase requires intensified efforts to expedite joint projects, exchange expertise, and coordinate policies in a manner that serves the common interests of GCC countries and their peoples.
The meeting reviewed measures undertaken to advance logistics integration across GCC member states and the progress achieved in this regard. Participants also stressed the importance of ensuring integration between the railway network project and existing infrastructure, including ports, airports, and logistics hubs across the GCC.
The meeting further discussed ways to streamline customs and border procedures, activate alternative transport routes, and strengthen logistics links between ports, border crossings, and economic zones. Discussions also covered the adoption of advanced technologies and unified digital systems to accelerate clearance, inspection, and tracking procedures.
Participants underscored the need to intensify joint efforts to ensure the timely implementation of the GCC railway project in accordance with the approved timetable, with completion targeted by December 2030. The project is expected to further strengthen Gulf integration, maintain the smooth flow of trade and supply chains, and support the region's ability to add.