Manama: As part of Bahrain's presidency of the 46th session of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Shaikh Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Undersecretary for Municipalities at the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, chaired the remote 42nd meeting of the GCC Committee of Senior Municipal Officials. The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation and coordination in the municipal sector across GCC countries.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Shaikh Mohammed bin Ahmed emphasized the importance of strengthening Gulf cooperation in the municipal sector and building on joint efforts to develop municipal work in GCC countries. He advocated for integration and the exchange of expertise and experiences in related domains. Shaikh Mohammed also highlighted the need to develop common legislative and regulatory frameworks, enhance coordination in urban planning and the urban environment, and learn from successful municipal practices to support the development of municipal systems.
The meeting's agenda covered several strategic topics, including the urban environment, the GCC Building Code, the development of legislation and municipal oversight mechanisms, and strategic urban planning. Additionally, the discussion included the GCC Joint Municipal Work Plan for 2024-2030, smart city initiatives, municipal sustainability, and the exchange of expertise among member states.
The meeting also addressed proposals and initiatives aimed at strengthening the exchange of expertise, experiences, and information among GCC countries. It focused on developing cooperation with specialized organizations, highlighting GCC municipal work at regional and international events, and reviewing the outcomes of the GCC Joint Municipal Work Plan.