Manama: As part of the Kingdom of Bahrain's presidency of the 46th session of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, chaired the meeting of the GCC Agricultural Cooperation and Food Security Committee, held via videoconference.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the meeting was attended by GCC ministers and senior officials responsible for agriculture and food security, as well as Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council. In his address, Minister Al Mubarak emphasized that, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Bahrain continues to prioritize strengthening its food security system and ensuring the sustainability of supply chains.
He stated that Bahrain is pursuing this objective through the development of national strategies, the diversification of import sources, and the expansion of strategic storage capacity. This approach reflects Bahrain's commitment to ensuring the sustainable availability of food and essential commodities as both a national responsibility and a strategic investment for current and future generations.
The minister highlighted the significance of greater integration across strategic sectors and enhanced agricultural and food cooperation among GCC member states. This is aimed at supporting the establishment of an integrated regional strategic stockpiling system. He noted that the initiative aligns with the directives of Their Majesties and Highnesses, the leaders of the GCC member states, and will contribute to strengthening supply chain resilience, enhancing preparedness, and reinforcing the ability of GCC countries to respond effectively to evolving challenges through coordinated efforts and the integration of national capabilities.
The committee reviewed the latest developments regarding the proposed establishment of a unified GCC strategic stockpiling system for food, medicines, essential commodities, and vital materials. Members also discussed several agenda items related to agricultural cooperation and food security, aimed at strengthening regional food security, enhancing the preparedness of GCC member states, and supporting the implementation of joint plans and initiatives in this field.