Bahrain has reiterated its commitment to reinforcing food security across the Gulf region after chairing a meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council’s Agricultural Cooperation and Food Security Committee. The session was convened virtually as part of Bahrain’s presidency of the GCC’s 46th session, bringing together ministers responsible for agriculture and food security from member states.
Chaired by the Minister of Municipalities and Agriculture, Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, the meeting also included Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi. Officials discussed recent developments affecting food availability and the steps required to improve preparedness for future challenges, particularly in the areas of food supplies, medicines, and other critical commodities.
Leadership role in GCC food-security cooperation
In his opening remarks, Al Mubarak said Bahrain’s approach is guided by the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the support of HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. He said the kingdom continues to place food security high on its agenda, viewing it as essential to stable supply chains and long-term national resilience.
National strategy: diversifying imports and expanding storage
The minister highlighted that Bahrain is advancing food security strategies through the diversification of import sources. He also pointed to efforts to increase strategic storage capacities, designed to help maintain access to food and essential commodities even during disruptions. He described food security as a responsibility shared by the public and private sectors and as an investment in future generations.
Moving toward a unified GCC storage system
Al Mubarak stressed the need for closer GCC collaboration in strategic sectors, especially agriculture and food security. He said deeper regional integration could support a unified Gulf framework for strategic storage, improve supply chain resilience, and strengthen emergency preparedness through coordinated action.
Review of a joint GCC storage initiative
During the meeting, ministers reviewed updates on a GCC project aimed at establishing a joint strategic storage system for food, medicines, goods, and other vital materials. They also discussed initiatives intended to enhance agricultural cooperation, strengthen regional food security, and improve readiness to respond to evolving regional and global conditions.