Riyadh: Saudi Arabia’s delegation successfully concluded its participation in the 68th meeting of the Trade Cooperation Committee in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, held in Kuwait on Wednesday. Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization (SASO) Governor Saad Alkasabi led the Kingdom’s delegation, which included the presence of GCC Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi and trade ministers from member states.
According to Saudi Press Agency, participants discussed the latest challenges facing global trade and their impacts on GCC countries. They reviewed updates on negotiations for free-trade agreements with various countries and international blocs. The discussions also included the adoption of a methodology for developing unified trade legislative tools that reflect best global practices, aiming to enhance quality and ensure consistency across regulations.
Delegations monitored the progress of implementing and preparing draft trade laws for GCC countries, including updates on the newly established GCC Investment Committee. Participants reviewed a report from the GCC General Secretariat on the activities of subcommittees affiliated with the Trade Cooperation Committee, the implementation of previous decisions, and the annual report on the achievements of the GCC Commercial Arbitration Centre for 2024.
Additionally, the Saudi delegation participated in the ninth meeting of the GCC Ministerial Committee for Standardization Affairs. This meeting addressed recent developments within the GCC Standardization Organization and reviewed the implementation of prior decisions. The effort aims to strengthen cooperation among Gulf states in standardization to support intra-GCC trade and foster economic growth.
The SASO governor engaged in a consultative meeting with trade and industry ministers and heads of federations and chambers from GCC countries, in addition to attending a ceremony honoring Gulf inventors. During his visit, Alkasabi met with Kuwaiti Minister of Commerce and Industry Khalifa Al-Askar and Omani Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion Qais Al Yousef.
