Manama: The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC): The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has emphasized the critical role that the private sector plays in achieving national goals and enhancing the collaborative efforts of Gulf nations. Secretary General of the GCC, Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, highlighted the importance of the 14th Consultative Meeting with the heads of GCC federations and chambers of commerce, aimed at supporting and empowering the private sector to achieve economic integration across GCC states. According to Qatar News Agency, this periodic consultative meeting provides a strategic dialogue platform uniting policymakers, decision-makers, and representatives of the private sector. Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi stated that this collaboration represents a high level of communication between government officials and the private sector, aiming to enhance joint cooperation, stimulate economic growth, and address regional and international economic challenges facing the Gulf private sector. Albudaiwi noted that th e growth in intra-regional trade is a testament to overcoming numerous challenges. He reported that the intra-GCC trade volume reached approximately USD 146 billion in 2024, with an annual growth rate of 9.8 percent, underscoring the strengthening and expansion of Gulf trade exchange. The Secretary General expressed optimism that the meeting would generate initiatives to support the private sector's growth. He emphasized the sector's potential to act as a powerful economic engine, contributing to economic stability and development in the GCC states, while reinforcing the Cooperation Council's standing as a global financial, investment, and economic hub.