KUWAIT: Acting Director General of the Central Statistical Bureau (CSB) Wafaa Al-Yahya has emphasized the importance of strengthening coordination and cooperation mechanisms among technical institutions in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, noting that such efforts directly contribute to the welfare and prosperity of their peoples. Speaking to KUNA following the conclusion of the 12th meeting of the GCC Permanent Committee for Statistical Affairs, chaired by Kuwait and hosted in Oman, Al-Yahya highlighted the significance of joint Gulf action, consistent follow-up on key files and the implementation of decisions and directives of GCC leaders.

She affirmed that Kuwait’s participation in such meetings reflects its commitment to enhancing joint Gulf action and supporting the work of regional bodies, particularly the Gulf Statistics Center, as well as international organizations concerned with statistical development. She stressed the critical role of accurate data in supporting sound decision-making that benefits the region.

Acting Director General of the Central Administration of Statistics Wafaa Al-Yahya

The meeting’s agenda included following up on recommendations of the 11th committee session, discussing the draft strategic plan for joint statistical work 2026–2030, and considering a proposal to establish a regional working group on population estimates and projections. Participants also reviewed the center’s draft budget for 2026, discussed the e-commerce and digital economy project, examined performance indicators related to the GCC Strategy for Combating Drugs 2025–2028 and reviewed the foreign trade database and environmental performance index. — KUNA

KUWAIT: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Sheikh Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al-Sabah on Wednesday decorated Army Chief of Staff Khaled Al-Shuraian with the rank of Lieutenant General, in implementation of an Amiri Decree issued by His Highness the Amir and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

In a statement, the Defense Ministry quoted Sheikh Abdullah as congratulating Lt Gen Al-Shuraian on the Amir’s confidence, describing the promotion as a reflection of his competence, leadership skills and long record of distinguished service. He wished the Army Chief further success in serving the nation, safeguarding its security and stability and preserving its achievements. The ceremony was attended by Defense Ministry Undersecretary Sheikh Dr Abdullah Meshaal Al-Sabah, Deputy Chief of Staff Maj Gen Sabah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and a number of senior officers.

Born in 1968, Lt Gen Al-Shuraian graduated from the Royal Jordanian Military College in 1990 and has since participated in several key operations, including the 1991 Kuwait Liberation War, the 2003 Iraq Liberation War and Saudi Arabia’s Operation Decisive Storm in 2015. He previously served as Commander of the Kuwaiti Air Defense Force and has received numerous medals and decorations in recognition of his service. — KUNA

KUWAIT: The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Ports and Maritime Administrations Committee held its 33rd meeting on Wednesday under Kuwait’s chairmanship, focusing on advancing an agreement to ensure freedom of navigation for GCC citizens in Arabian Gulf waters. Speaking to KUNA after the meeting, Director General of the Coast Guard at the Ministry of Interior, Brigadier General Sheikh Mubarak Ali Al-Yousef Al-Sabah, who headed the Kuwaiti delegation, said the committee discussed mutual recognition of maritime licenses among GCC states to strengthen regional integration and connectivity.

Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah highlighted that the meeting addressed regulations for the entry of traditional commercial vessels into GCC ports, safety standards for docks, and the use of electronic documentation to verify ship ownership and registration. Discussions also covered facilitating the use of marine transport within territorial seas, licensing for naval units and the establishment of regional training centers.

He emphasized that the meeting reflects the member states’ commitment to enhancing cooperation and developing the maritime transport sector, which boosts economic and social benefits and supports the growth of regional maritime trade. The discussions also encompassed protecting the marine environment and preserving resources to ensure sustainability.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Ports and Maritime Administrations Committee hold its 33rd meeting on Wednesday under Kuwait’s chairmanship.- KUNA photos

Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah noted GCC achievements in maritime operations: Kuwait-flagged vessels attained the highest operational performance rating under the Tokyo Memorandum of Understanding, with 30 inspections completed without observations. Saudi Arabia expanded its fleet to 409 vessels totaling over 16.5 million tons and registered 3,000 national sailors through strategic training programs. In the UAE, Dubai launched its Maritime Transport Plan 2030 to increase maritime transport users by 51 percent and expand the network by 188 percent.

Qatar’s Hamad Port ranked 11th globally in the 2024 Container Efficiency Index, while Oman’s Port of Salalah secured second place in the World Bank’s CPPI index, the highest for any Arab port. Bahrain launched the advanced research vessel Al-Masaha 2050 to develop a comprehensive marine data system supporting strategic planning and economic development. Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah said these initiatives underscore GCC states’ shared commitment to strengthening regional maritime transport, safety and environmental protection. — KUNA