Manama: Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, welcomed the ministers and heads of delegations participating in the 10th meeting of the GCC Ministerial Committee responsible for tourism. This meeting was held in Bahrain under the country's presidency of the 46th session of the GCC Supreme Council, known as the Bahrain Summit.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism, attended the meeting alongside the GCC leaders. The participants extended greetings from Their Majesties and Highnesses of the GCC to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah reciprocated with greetings to the GCC leaders on behalf of His Majesty and His Royal Highness.
The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that Bahrain considers security a cornerstone of development in all sectors, under the guidance of His Majesty the King and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. He pointed out that the security and prosperity enjoyed by the GCC countries have made the region an attractive destination for family tourism globally, supported by the visions of their leaders.
Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah stressed the importance of shared values and heritage among GCC countries as a foundation for boosting tourism integration and cooperation. He highlighted how these elements enhance the region's capability to tackle challenges effectively, aiding economic diversification and comprehensive development goals.
He expressed his hopes for successful outcomes from the meeting, emphasizing the significance of joint initiatives to facilitate tourist movement and improve the competitiveness of GCC countries as a top tourism destination with rich cultural, heritage, and urban diversity.
Moreover, the Deputy Prime Minister praised the efforts of GCC tourism ministries and authorities, along with the GCC Secretariat-General, in turning shared aspirations into practical programs and integrated projects that bolster development.
The participating ministers and delegation heads thanked the Deputy Prime Minister for the warm reception and reiterated their commitment to promoting cooperation and integration to strengthen the GCC tourism sector's competitiveness. They wished Bahrain continued progress and prosperity.