The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) hosted the Gulf Achievements Forum on Monday at its headquarters in Riyadh, spotlighting regional milestones across political, economic, and social spheres. The event, organized by the GCC General Secretariat in partnership with the Gulf Radio and Television Organization, aimed to enhance public understanding of the council’s collective progress and to chart a strategic vision for deeper Gulf integration.

Speaking at the forum, GCC Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi emphasized the significance of the achievements as outcomes of coordinated efforts by GCC leaders to transform challenges into opportunities over decades of cooperation. He underscored that the GCC had evolved beyond a regional alliance defined by geography and history, becoming a global strategic entity driving development, security, and prosperity. Al-Budaiwi highlighted that the strength of the GCC lies in its unity and cohesion, particularly important amid rapid regional and international changes.

The forum took place ahead of the GCC’s 45th anniversary on May 25, marking nearly half a century of joint action aimed at fostering political integration, economic collaboration, and security coordination. Al-Budaiwi pointed to comprehensive accomplishments in infrastructure connectivity, digital transformation, education, healthcare, energy integration, and food security, noting that such advances have tangibly improved Gulf citizens’ quality of life through job creation, investment, and social welfare programs.

Among specific achievements, Al-Budaiwi noted the completion of 95 percent of the traffic connectivity projects among GCC countries, alongside unified strategies to combat money laundering and drug trafficking. He described these outcomes as products of sustained political will, strategic vision, and close coordination among GCC members, including interior ministries.

The forum also highlighted the role of media in fostering Gulf identity and disseminating information about collective successes. Dr. Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz Al-Hazzaa, director general of the Gulf Radio and Television Organization, underscored the importance of a unified media message to amplify the achievements of joint Gulf endeavors. Similarly, Adnan Al-Rashed, chairman of the Kuwait Journalists Association, remarked that the forum carries special importance during a regional truce, offering an opportunity for Gulf officials and media representatives to underscore ongoing collaboration despite existing challenges. He emphasized the vital contribution of media platforms in showcasing the GCC’s humanitarian efforts and developmental progress.

Overall, the Gulf Achievements Forum served as a platform to document and celebrate the GCC’s sustained progress while promoting future cooperation to ensure sustainable development and solidify the council’s role as a regional and global influencer.