Doha, October 27 (QNA) - The State of Qatar has participated in a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) meeting to discuss ways to strengthen transport links, improve logistics integration and address rising shipping costs across the region.

The 31st meeting of undersecretaries of GCC transport ministries was held virtually on Tuesday, with representatives from all member countries taking part.

HE Undersecretary of the Ministry of Transport Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Maadeed represented the State of Qatar during the meeting.

Discussions focused on initiatives to deepen cooperation and integration in the transport sector, including improving regional connectivity and promoting economic prosperity through more efficient logistics networks.

Participants also examined the factors contributing to higher costs in road and maritime freight transport and considered possible measures to address them, with the aim of improving service efficiency and facilitating the movement of goods and trade between member states.

The meeting reviewed progress on a proposed GCC land transport strategy, as well as a unified framework for international road transport and its implementing regulations.

Other items on the agenda included the possibility of the GCC states jointly acceding to an international agreement on the transport of dangerous goods by road, and a proposed agreement to facilitate the movement of recreational marine craft between member countries.

Officials also discussed the development of maritime transport regulations, a proposed initiative to establish green corridors between GCC ports, and the preparation of a marine environmental risk register.

Further discussions covered maritime transport safety, the regulation of traditional commercial vessels entering GCC waters and ports, and harmonized requirements for issuing licenses to operators of marine craft not covered by international maritime conventions.

The meeting forms part of ongoing GCC efforts to coordinate transport policies, strengthen regional connectivity and facilitate cross-border trade. (QNA)