DOHA: H.E. Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti, Minister of Transport, chaired the 26th Meeting of the Committee of Ministers of Transport of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in Doha, reaffirming Qatar’s commitment to regional connectivity and sustainable development in the transportation sector. The meeting included GCC ministers of transportation and H.E. Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, GCC Secretary-General.
In his opening address, Al Sulaiti emphasized the importance of collaboration among GCC countries to advance collective transportation infrastructure, a priority backed by GCC leaders. Central to this agenda is the ambitious GCC Railways Project, expected to be completed by 2030, which will link GCC countries, streamline regional trade routes, and connect logistics hubs, economic zones, and key ports. This project aims to enhance regional economic integration and provide safe, efficient transportation for passengers and cargo.
The Minister highlighted recent advancements in GCC port capacities, which have positioned them among the top-ranked in efficiency worldwide, as measured by the World Bank. He noted that GCC countries have developed state-of-the-art, eco-friendly transportation systems equipped with smart technology, supporting carbon reduction initiatives to achieve long-term carbon neutrality. This progress has earned international recognition, underscoring the GCC’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure.
During the meeting, GCC ministers discussed strategies to further cooperation, including updates on the GCC Railways Project, the General Agreement for regional railway connectivity, and executive regulations for land transportation. Additional topics included regulations for merchant vessel access to GCC waters, conditions for offshore unit driving licenses, and guidelines for other transportation regulations to ensure the seamless integration of regional networks.
Minister Al Sulaiti pointed to the transportation sector as pivotal to the success of broader GCC development plans, with significant investments supporting regional highway networks and expanding travel, passenger, and cargo options. The recent focus on balanced economic and social integration, he noted, is driving substantial progress across the region, solidifying the GCC’s role in connecting markets and communities for a prosperous future.
