Info undersecretaries meet ahead of ministerial meeting

KUWAIT: Undersecretaries of information ministries from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states convened in Kuwait on Sunday for a preparatory meeting ahead of the 28th GCC Information Ministers’ Meeting, scheduled for Monday. Chairing the session, Kuwaiti Information Ministry Undersecretary Dr Nasser Muhaisen emphasized the strategic importance of strengthening the Gulf media sector, particularly amid rapid digital transformation. He highlighted the sector’s vital role in safeguarding social cohesion and reinforcing a collective Gulf identity.

Dr Muhaisen conveyed the greetings of Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, expressing his best wishes for a productive meeting. He praised the ongoing efforts to bolster joint Gulf media initiatives and called for continued cooperation to foster a robust and dynamic media landscape.

“This meeting represents a key platform for exchanging expertise, shaping strategic visions, and launching innovative media projects that reflect the ambitions of our societies for a more integrated and prosperous future,” he said. Underscoring the media’s growing influence in shaping public awareness and enhancing regional stability, Dr Muhaisen noted the importance of unified messaging in addressing common challenges and promoting the GCC’s presence on regional and international stages.

Undersecretary of the Ministry of Information, Dr Nasser Muhaisen

Part of the meeting of the Gulf Information Ministries’ Undersecretaries in preparation for the meeting of the Gulf Information Ministers. – KUNA photos

He further stressed the need for developing national media talent, modernizing media-related legislation, and embracing advanced technologies to support the Gulf media message. “These elements are essential for building a sustainable and effective media system,” he said, adding that periodic Gulf meetings serve to align media strategies and support shared objectives. Dr Muhaisen extended his sincere appreciation to Assistant Secretary-General for Economic and Development Affairs at the GCC General Secretariat, Khaled Al-Sunaidi, and the supporting teams for their efforts in organizing the meeting. He concluded by invoking God’s blessings for the success of the gathering under the leadership of the GCC heads of state.

In his address, Al-Sunaidi expressed gratitude to His Highness the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Chairman of the current session of the GCC Supreme Council, for Kuwait’s steadfast support of joint Gulf initiatives, particularly in the media sector. He also congratulated Sheikh Mubarak Fahad Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah on his appointment as Director-General of the Joint Program Production Institution, wishing him success in his new role and affirming the Secretariat’s commitment to advancing collaborative media efforts.

Al-Sunaidi highlighted several key topics on the meeting’s agenda, including proposed initiatives under the GCC’s Joint Media Cooperation Strategic Plan (2023–2030). These include Kuwait’s proposals for the Excellence and Electronic Publishing Award, the “Gulf of Pride and Glory” and “Behind the Scenes” programs, enhanced cooperation among radio and television libraries, and the integration of artificial intelligence in media. He also cited additional proposals from the Secretariat, such as establishing a Gulf Media Forum, launching a media leaders initiative, and promoting Gulf media dialogues, all aimed at elevating regional media collaboration and innovation. — KUNA