Manama:The Board of Directors of the Federation of GCC Chambers convened its 69th meeting on Monday in Bahrain, chaired by Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al-Thani, who is both the Chairman of the Federation and the Chairman of Qatar Chamber. The meeting saw participation from leaders of federations and chambers of commerce and industry from across the GCC states.

According to Qatar News Agency, the discussions focused on enhancing economic and trade cooperation among GCC states and the role of the private sector in boosting intra-GCC trade. Measures to advance economic integration within the Gulf region were also a key topic.

Sheikh Khalifa highlighted that the meeting occurred amid unprecedented challenges such as geopolitical instability and disruptions to international trade and navigation, which are affecting supply chains and increasing costs in transport, shipping, and insurance. He praised the proposals put forward by member chambers, emphasizing their potential to be developed into practical programs.

The Qatar Chamber delegation at the meeting included Board members Ibtihaj Al Ahmadani, Mohammed bin Mahdi Al Ahbabi, and Nasser bin Sulaiman Al Haider. The agenda also covered a review of the decisions from the previous Board meeting, the General Secretariat's work program, and the Federation's annual budget for 2027. Additionally, topics for the upcoming 15th consultative meeting between GCC Ministers of Trade and Industry and federation heads were proposed, with the meeting scheduled for Tuesday in Manama.