(Manama) – His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa has stressed the importance of food and water security in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
The Prime Minister affirmed that sisterly Saudi Arabia represents the weight of GCC food security, and that the tremendous efforts exerted by GCC leaders have consolidated GCC countries’ efforts to achieve food and water security.
HRH Premier made the statements while receiving at the Gudaibiy Palace the members of the GCC Agricultural Cooperation Committee, who are holding their 28th meeting in Bahrain.
GCC ministers and officials in charge of agricultural affairs were also present.
HRH Premier underlined his constant keenness to supporting the agricultural sector, being a promising economic sector that is capable of attracting investment projects, stressing the importance of strengthening joint cooperation to consolidate the agricultural sector, livestock, plants and fisheries in GCC states for their importance in achieving food security.
HRH the Prime Minister highlighted the need for stepping up cooperation to ensure the success of GCC agricultural policies, as well as the optimal use and preservation of natural resources to develop agricultural and livestock projects.
The Premier lauded the strides made by GCC countries regarding food products, adding that he is looking forward to stronger cooperation in agricultural projects, dates-related industries and agricultural products for their ability to achieve GCC food self-sufficiency.
HRH Premier went on to emphasise that cooperation in achieving food security is crucial for consolidating security and stability in their broad sense, and enhancing the growth of GCC states’ economies, calling for the need to develop joint GCC investments in agriculture, food industries and projects related to livestock and fisheries, as well as to launch initiatives that broaden agricultural activities so as to meet the needs of the region.
Ensuring food security has become a global challenge in the midst of the crises witnessed by the world nowadays, he said, pointing out that GCC countries have made major strides in developing agricultural production through supporting local production and external investments in brotherly and friendly countries in a bid to reach food security.
HRH Premier urged integrated plans and strategies to consolidate GCC cooperation in the field of food security, stressing that efforts should be focused on developing each country’s own resources and ensuring their sustainability for the coming generations.
GCC ministers in charge of agricultural affairs extended thanks and appreciation to HRH the Prime Minister for his interest in strengthening GCC complementarity and cooperation in various fields.
They lauded the Premier’s initiatives to strengthen GCC development, hailing Bahrain’s constant efforts to enhance joint GCC action for the best interests of GCC countries and their peoples.
