Bahrain: Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), emphasized that agriculture and food security are strategic priorities for GCC states and form key pillars of joint Gulf action. Albudaiwi's remarks were made during the 38th Meeting of the Committee of Agricultural Cooperation and Food Security in the GCC States, which was held in the Kingdom of Bahrain and chaired by Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the GCC Secretary General stated that member states are diligently working to enhance agricultural and food production capabilities. This includes improving the sustainable and efficient use of natural resources, strengthening their capacity to meet food requirements, and enhancing preparedness for future challenges. Albudaiwi also expressed gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for Bahrain's hosting of the meeting and the Kingdom's support for joint Gulf action.
Albudaiwi referenced directives from the 19th Consultative Meeting of the GCC Supreme Council, held in Jeddah on April 28, 2026. These directives aim to bolster the GCC states' readiness for crises and challenges, including the study of establishing strategic food storage zones across the GCC.
He further highlighted various initiatives across GCC states designed to boost food security. These initiatives involve the use of agricultural technologies and innovation, the development of local production and agricultural projects, strengthening strategic food reserves, and implementing early warning systems. They also focus on developing value chains, reducing food loss and waste, and increasing private sector participation.
Albudaiwi noted that these efforts align with the objectives of the GCC Food Security Strategy. They contribute to the development of a more integrated, resilient, and sustainable food security ecosystem across the GCC.