Manama: Jassem Mohammed Al Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), participated in the fifth meeting of the GCC Ministerial Committee for Cybersecurity, held today in Manama. The meeting, chaired by Shaikh Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of the National Cybersecurity Centre, included officials responsible for cybersecurity in GCC states.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Al Budaiwi affirmed that GCC states, with the support of Their Majesties and Highnesses the GCC leaders, have secured a leading global position in cybersecurity. He highlighted that GCC states have achieved advanced rankings in international indices, initiated programs to develop national capabilities, enhanced data protection and digital infrastructure, and improved responses to cyber incidents.
Al Budaiwi expressed gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for hosting the committee's meeting and supporting the GCC's initiatives. He acknowledged the commitment of GCC leaders to joint Gulf action across various domains.
The Secretary General discussed the recent regional developments and cyber threats, noting the GCC's readiness and efficiency in cybersecurity. He credited proactive measures and coordination efforts for safeguarding critical infrastructure and digital systems, enhancing the capacity to counter cyber attacks effectively.
He elaborated that the GCC's cybersecurity achievements are the result of collaborative efforts, highlighting the adoption of the Executive Plan for the GCC Cybersecurity Strategy (2024-2028) and the GCC International Cooperation Framework in Cybersecurity. The establishment of governance mechanisms and annual cyber drills were also noted as key accomplishments.
Al Budaiwi reiterated that cybersecurity is a vital component of state security, crucial for protecting development and economic progress, and fostering Gulf integration and digital transformation. He emphasized that the meeting's agenda includes topics aimed at bolstering cooperation and convergence among GCC states.