Kuwait city: Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Albudaiwi affirmed that the GCC states have achieved results exceeding the global average in the Social Progress Index, and social achievements that have strengthened their Gulf integration.

According to Saudi Press Agency, Albudaiwi's remarks came during his speech at the 11th meeting of the Committee of Ministers of Social Affairs and Development of the GCC countries, held in Kuwait City. The meeting was chaired by Kuwaiti Minister of Social Affairs and Family and Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Hadi Haif Al Huwailah, who is also president of the current session, and included participation from GCC ministers of social affairs and development.

At the beginning of his speech, the GCC secretary-general extended his highest thanks, appreciation, and gratitude to Amir of the State of Kuwait Shaikh Meshal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah for Kuwait's hosting of the meeting, and for the facilities and support provided to ensure the success of the GCC work. He also praised the great support that joint Gulf action receives from the leaders of the GCC states across various fields.

Albudaiwi emphasized the committee's active role in bolstering joint Gulf action in social development, highlighting past achievements. Notably, the adoption of the Gulf Strategy for Combating Drugs (2025-2028) during the 45th Gulf Summit in December 2024 was aimed at enhancing efforts to protect children, youth, and Gulf families. Additionally, he noted that all GCC member states are expected to score above the global average of 64 points on the Global Social Progress Index for 2025. To honor young individuals contributing to their countries' advancement, the GCC General Secretariat will organize an event on April 16, 2025, celebrating one young man and one young woman from each Gulf state.

The GCC secretary-general also mentioned that the committee discussed several vital topics in the social field, including the Gulf Strategy for Combating Drugs, the committee's action plan for 2026-2030, and plans for joint charitable, humanitarian, and volunteer actions. He stressed that these initiatives would deepen social integration among GCC countries and maximize the benefits from shared accomplishments.