Kuwait: Jasem Mohammed Albudaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), participated in the 23rd meeting of GCC Ministers responsible for housing affairs, held in the State of Kuwait. The session was chaired by Abdullatif Hamed Al Meshari, Kuwait’s Minister of State for Municipal Affairs and Minister of State for Housing Affairs.
In his address, the Secretary-General affirmed that the housing sector remains a top priority for the leaders of GCC states, who have directed efforts to enhance quality of life, promote social well-being, and ensure access to adequate housing. These priorities, he noted, are part of a comprehensive development vision that integrates urban planning, housing finance, and sustainable growth.
He expressed his gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, Amir of the State of Kuwait and President of the current session of the GCC Supreme Council, as well as to the government and people of Kuwait, for their continued support of joint Gulf action.
Albudaiwi highlighted that the meeting underscores the GCC’s commitment to advancing the housing sector as a cornerstone of sustainable development and social stability. He stressed the importance of strengthening coordination, sharing best practices, adopting modern technologies, and formulating unified housing policies that meet the aspirations of GCC citizens.
He also commended the progress made across the region in developing smart cities, leveraging national capabilities, and implementing forward-looking strategies aligned with digital transformation. These initiatives, he said, prioritise sustainability, energy efficiency, and smart transport, while placing citizens at the centre of future urban development.
In conclusion, the Secretary-General praised the efforts of the GCC Housing and Construction Ministers' Committee and its affiliated technical committees for their contributions to joint Gulf cooperation and comprehensive development. He reaffirmed the GCC General Secretariat’s commitment to following up on related decisions and initiatives to support the housing sector and improve quality of life for citizens across the region.