GCC committee reviews MoUs, recommendations

KUWAIT: The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Electricity and Water Cooperation Committee convened its 31st meeting on Monday, chaired by Undersecretary of Kuwait’s Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy Dr Adel Al-Zamil. In a press statement, the Ministry said the meeting reviewed memoranda and recommendations submitted by technical committees and specialized working groups, including the General Secretariat’s proposal to merge the Gulf Electricity Forum with the Gulf Water Forum, recommending approval to proceed with the necessary executive procedures.

Dr Al-Zamil noted that the meeting approved drafting a memorandum of understanding with the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) to enhance joint research and development, with plans to sign it before March 2026. Recommendations concerning the tasks of the organizational and advisory committee were also approved, including continued financial and technical support for the Electricity Interconnection Authority, along with updates to fee mechanisms and periodic reporting.

Khaled Al-Sunaidi

Undersecretary of the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy chairs the meeting.- KUNA photos

The meeting urged member states to actively participate in sector-related conferences, workshops, and seminars, highlighting national achievements and experiences. It also discussed forming a joint working group to study potential water interconnection projects among GCC countries. Additionally, a new executive program was approved in cooperation with the Gulf Statistical Center, the World Bank, and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) to support the expansion of renewable energy projects.

It was agreed that Bahrain will host the next committee meeting in 2026, while reaffirming the regularity of annual meetings. Dr Al-Zamil emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation between GCC states in electricity and water, supporting strategic joint initiatives, enhancing supply security, and diversifying energy sources in line with sustainable development goals and national visions. The meeting was attended by undersecretaries from GCC ministries and representatives of the GCC General Secretariat, led by Assistant Secretary-General for Economic and Development Affairs Khalid Al-Sunaidi. — KUNA