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The development of a regional plan to support food security was discussed during an extraordinary virtual meeting of under-secretaries, held as part of Bahrain’s presidency of the 46th session of the GCC.
The meeting, chaired by Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry under-secretary of agriculture affairs and animal wealth Asem Abdulla, focused on measures to reinforce supply chains and strengthen food security across the region following the Iranian attacks.
It reviewed the outcomes of previous meetings and the recommendations submitted by relevant technical committees.
Participants also discussed the development of a comprehensive GCC plan to support food security and strengthen member states’ preparedness to effectively respond to emerging challenges.
In his opening remarks, Mr Abdulla highlighted the deep-rooted ties and co-ordination among GCC countries, in line with the aspirations of the leaders across the region.
He stressed the importance of unified action in responding to current developments and of consolidating efforts to enhance the efficiency, sustainability and resilience of regional food systems.
He also affirmed the shared commitment to advancing GCC initiatives in agriculture, while accelerating the development of more effective mechanisms to support the region’s food security framework.
Mr Abdulla noted that expanding co-operation through higher production and better use of resources would help build a more resilient and sustainable food system.
The GDN reported earlier that Bahrain will continue strengthening local production and diversifying food sources while ensuring the stability of domestic markets.
Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak, accompanied by Mr Abdulla, visited the General Poultry Company to follow up on national establishments in the food sector and ensure the sustainable availability of essential food commodities.
During the visit, Mr Al Mubarak received a detailed briefing on the company’s operations and reviewed new projects and expansion plans designed to boost production capacity and improve overall operational efficiency.
He affirmed that enhancing local production remains a steadfast national priority to boost Bahrain’s food security.
Meanwhile, four urgent proposals, aimed at easing economic pressure, protecting consumers and supporting food security were unanimously approved by MPs and referred to the Cabinet for review.
One of the motions urges authorities to tighten oversight on subsidised flour to prevent price manipulation and misuse of government support.
Two separate urgent proposals focused on fisheries and food supply, calling for the temporary suspension of existing bans due to regional security tensions and supply chain disruption.
Strategic Thinking Bloc spokesman Khalid Bu Onk said continuing to enforce Resolution No (2) of 2024 – which bans the fishing of safi, sheri and andaq – from April 1 to May 31 risks worsening shortages and price hikes.
MPs said the proposals share the common goal of protecting livelihoods, stabilising markets and easing pressure on citizens and businesses during exceptional circumstances.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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