Kuwait city: Kuwait's Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwaila affirmed that advancing social development in the Gulf is a reflection of the integration among GCC states. She reiterated Kuwait's commitment to supporting cooperation aimed at achieving the well-being of citizens.
According to Kuwait News Agency, these remarks were delivered during the 11th meeting of GCC Ministers of Social Affairs and Development. During the meeting, Al-Huwaila congratulated attendees on the Prophet's birthday, expressing wishes for peace and mercy to the Muslim nation. The discussions at the meeting included vital topics such as following up on previous resolutions, the joint social development work plan until 2030, and programs supporting persons with disabilities and the elderly.
The meeting also addressed strengthening social cohesion, developing social protection systems, tackling drug and alcohol misuse, and addressing children's issues in the context of technological and AI transformations. Al-Huwaila emphasized that these discussions demonstrate the GCC's commitment to integration and improving the quality of life for its citizens. She expressed hope that the deliberations would result in practical recommendations enhancing Gulf social cooperation.
Furthermore, Al-Huwaila praised the efforts of the GCC General Secretariat under Secretary General Jasem Al-Budaiwi in supporting the committee's work and translating ministerial visions into tangible programs and initiatives. She also acknowledged the preparatory efforts of the undersecretaries of social affairs and the active participation of ministers in strengthening Gulf joint action.
GCC Secretary General Jasem Al-Budaiwi noted that the meeting reinforces joint social action and deepens Gulf integration through initiatives such as combating drugs, social and humanitarian action plans, voluntary work, and youth support. He highlighted that GCC states have scored above the global average in the 2025 Social Progress Index.
Al-Budaiwi detailed key achievements, such as the Supreme Council's adoption of the GCC anti-drug strategy (2025-2028) and the GCC Secretariat's youth initiative in April 2022. The agenda also included significant social items aimed at maximizing citizens' benefits, including the 2025-2028 anti-drug strategy, the committee's 2020-2030 work plan and initiatives, the 2025-2030 joint charitable and humanitarian plan, and the 2026-2030 joint volunteer work plan.
He expressed confidence that the meeting's outcomes would further advance Gulf social cooperation.