KUWAIT: The 11th consultative meeting of the Chiefs of Staff of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) armed forces concluded Wednesday in Kuwait, with discussions focused on strengthening defense cooperation, unifying operational and training strategies, and enhancing regional security and combat readiness. In a statement, the Kuwaiti Army’s General Staff said the meeting was chaired by Deputy Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces Major General (Pilot) Sabah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, who conveyed the greetings of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Sheikh Abdullah Ali Al-Sabah. He also expressed the minister’s appreciation for the collective efforts to advance joint Gulf military cooperation.

Deputy Chief of General Staff Major General Pilot Sabah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah chairing the meeting

Major General Al-Sabah affirmed that the meeting comes as part of ongoing efforts to enhance military integration among GCC member states and reflects the shared determination to fortify unity and brotherhood amid evolving regional and global challenges. The chiefs of staff discussed a range of topics on the agenda, aligned with the vision and directives of GCC leaders to bolster joint defense capabilities. The meeting was also attended by the GCC Assistant Secretary-General for Military Affairs, the Commander of the Unified Military Command, as well as several senior military officials and commanders. — KUNA

KUWAIT: Director General of the Kuwait General Administration of Customs Fatima Al-Qallaf reaffirmed on Tuesday the administration’s ongoing commitment to improving the work environment, facilitating daily operations, and enhancing overall performance efficiency. Her remarks came during an inspection tour of key customs facilities, as part of efforts to closely monitor field operations and ensure the preparedness of customs centers and warehouses. In a statement issued by the Customs Department, Al-Qallaf’s tour included visits to Doha Port, Al-Shiraa’ Warehouse, and Amghara Warehouse, where she reviewed operational procedures, inspected updated systems, and assessed the functionality of examination and inspection equipment.

The statement noted that Al-Qallaf was briefed on the latest developments in work systems and took the opportunity to listen to the observations and requests of on-site customs inspectors. She stressed the administration’s continued support in meeting the needs of field staff and developing the work environment, reaffirming the goal of maintaining high standards of service and readiness across all customs facilities. — KUNA

KUWAIT: Head of the Voluntary Work Center (VCC) Sheikha Amthal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah extended her heartfelt gratitude to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for his directive to establish two heritage markets modeled after Al-Mubarakiya market in the northern and southern regions of the country. In a statement to KUNA on Wednesday, Sheikha Amthal said the initiative reflects His Highness the Amir’s dedication to supporting the needs of citizens and promoting cultural and economic activity across Kuwait.

She noted that the heritage markets aim to serve residents in those regions while enriching Kuwait’s cultural landscape. His Highness has entrusted Minister of Information and Culture, and State Minister for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi with overseeing the study and implementation of the projects, given their historical and national significance.

“We deeply appreciate His Highness the Amir’s generous and caring gesture, and his keen interest in addressing the needs of the northern and southern communities,” Sheikha Amthal said, praying for His Highness’ continued health and well-being, and for Kuwait’s ongoing security, prosperity and stability. She also expressed her appreciation to Minister Al-Mutairi for involving the Voluntary Work Center in the initiative, citing the center’s prior experience in developing Al-Mubarakiya market in collaboration with the Center for Research and Studies on Kuwait and the Kuwait Heritage Society.

“This project seeks to revive the spirit of traditional Kuwaiti markets while integrating modern elements that respect both cultural authenticity and contemporary needs,” she said. Sheikha Amthal further extended her thanks to Minister of State for Municipal Affairs and Minister of State for Housing Affairs Abdullatif Al-Meshari, as well as the Kuwait Municipality, for their role in designing and initiating the establishment of the northern heritage market in Jahra. — KUNA