RIYADH: The 44th anniversary of the Gulf Cooperation Council's (GCC) founding was marked by a celebration in Riyadh, where Secretary-General Jassim Al-Budaiwi highlighted the significant achievements of the Gulf nations since the Council's inception. According to Union of OIC News Agencies, Al-Budaiwi addressed attendees at the event held by the General Secretariat of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf. The ceremony saw the presence of distinguished guests, including the Emir of Riyadh, Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, and Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, Kuwaiti Minister of Information, Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, representing the Presidency, along with various ambassadors and senior officials. Al-Budaiwi noted that the GCC's journey, which began on May 25, 1981, has been instrumental in fostering unity and cooperation among the Gulf states. He emphasized the GCC's economic milestones, highlighting the region's financial markets as some of the largest globally, with a mark et value constituting over 3 percent of the global market. He also pointed to a 4 percent growth in inter-regional trade, with exports reaching $67 billion. In the realm of energy, Al-Budaiwi stated that the GCC countries are leading producers of renewable energy in the Middle East, contributing 30 percent to the region's clean energy and 5 percent to wind energy production, which accounts for 54 percent of global production. Al-Budaiwi also touched upon the progress in education and technology, revealing that approximately 8 Gulf students are studying in higher education institutions across GCC countries, indicating an integrated educational system. He further stated that the GCC is prepared to embrace the digital economy, with a readiness in artificial intelligence surpassing the global average and a projected contribution of 12 percent to the region's GDP by 34. The launch of joint digital initiatives, such as a news app for GCC news agencies and a smartphone app for Gulf statistics, was also announced. These initiatives aim to provide accurate data on development, the economy, society, and the environment. Al-Budaiwi acknowledged the support from GCC states, particularly Kuwait, the current chair, and highlighted the efforts of the Secretariat and its staff. He concluded by expressing his hopes for continued security, stability, and prosperity for the GCC states, as well as guidance for their leaders in furthering joint Gulf efforts.
