Tribune News Network
Doha
Qatar, led by Minister of Finance HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, participated in the 126th meeting of the Committee of Ministers of Finance and Economic Affairs of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, held in Manama, Bahrain, to discuss regional economic developments, financial cooperation and progress towards greater economic integration among member states.
The meeting brought together ministers of finance from GCC member states to review key economic and financial issues affecting the region and discuss measures to strengthen economic cooperation amid evolving regional and international circumstances.
During the meeting, the ministers reviewed the outcomes of several key GCC committees, including the Committee of Central Bank Governors, the GCC Customs Union Authority, the Committee of Heads and Directors of Tax Departments and the GCC Common Market Committee.
The discussions covered developments in monetary and financial cooperation, customs integration, tax coordination and efforts to facilitate the movement of goods, services, capital and people across the GCC economies.
The ministers also considered a report presented by the GCC General Secretariat on measures taken in response to current circumstances, alongside an assessment of major regional and international economic developments.
International trade was another key item on the agenda, with the meeting discussing mechanisms for implementing decisions related to combating unfair practices in international trade. The discussions highlighted the importance of coordinated action among GCC countries to address trade-related challenges and safeguard their economic interests.
The meeting also reviewed the progress of negotiations on free trade agreements between GCC member states and other countries and international economic blocs. Such agreements form part of the wider efforts to expand trade relations, strengthen market access and enhance the competitiveness of GCC economies in global markets.
In addition, the ministers followed up on the latest developments in efforts to achieve economic unity among GCC member states, with a focus on advancing integration and implementing common economic frameworks. Qatar’s participation in the meeting reflects its continued engagement in GCC initiatives aimed at strengthening financial and economic cooperation, coordinating policy approaches and supporting regional economic integration.
The meeting provided a platform for GCC finance ministers to exchange views on shared economic priorities and assess progress on initiatives designed to deepen cooperation and enhance the region’s resilience amid changing global economic conditions.
