Manama: Shaikh Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of the National Cybersecurity Centre, chaired the fifth meeting of the GCC Ministerial Committee for Cybersecurity, held as part of the Kingdom of Bahrain's presidency of the 46th session of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The meeting was attended by Jassem Mohammed Al Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the GCC.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Shaikh Salman bin Mohammed affirmed that the meetings of the GCC Ministerial Committee for Cybersecurity serve as a high-level platform for enhancing Gulf integration in the field of cybersecurity. These gatherings are essential for unifying strategic visions and approaches and supporting the coordination of joint efforts on priority issues.
The Chief Executive highlighted that these meetings contribute to formulating joint GCC initiatives and policies. They are crucial in enhancing the cyber readiness of GCC countries, thereby building a secure and integrated Gulf system capable of efficiently and effectively addressing cybersecurity challenges and threats. This initiative aligns with the aspirations of GCC countries and their peoples.
Shaikh Salman bin Mohammed also emphasized the need for unifying Gulf positions and approaches towards various cybersecurity issues at this current stage. This unification supports the development of policies and frameworks governing joint action, consolidating Gulf integration in addressing rapidly evolving technological challenges, and enhancing the protection of the national interests of GCC countries.
The meeting covered items on the agenda of common interest and reviewed developments in joint GCC initiatives and programmes aimed at enhancing cybersecurity across GCC countries. It also discussed ways to develop mechanisms for coordination and cooperation, supporting Gulf aspirations to build a secure and trusted cyberspace that contributes to protecting common interests and supports sustainable development efforts in GCC countries.
Bahrain's hosting of the fifth meeting of the GCC Ministerial Committee for Cybersecurity reflects the Kingdom's advanced position in supporting joint GCC action. It demonstrates the GCC countries' commitment to enhancing integration and coordination in addressing cybersecurity challenges, which contributes to consolidating an advanced Gulf cybersecurity system that supports security, stability, and sustainable development.