Manama, October 05 (QNA) - The Board of Directors of the Federation of GCC Chambers held its 69th meeting on Monday in Manama, Bahrain, chaired by HE Chairman of the Federation and Chairman of Qatar Chamber Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al-Thani, with the participation of chairpersons of federations and chambers of commerce and industry from GCC states.

The meeting discussed ways to enhance economic and trade cooperation among GCC states, the role of the private sector in boosting intra-GCC trade, and measures to advance economic integration in the Gulf region.

HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al-Thani said the meeting comes at a time when the region is facing unprecedented and rapidly evolving challenges, foremost among them geopolitical instability and disruptions to international trade and navigation, which have put pressure on supply chains and increased transport, shipping, and insurance costs.

He commended the proposals submitted by member chambers, noting that they would be translated into practical programs.

The Qatar Chamber delegation included Board members Ibtihaj Al Ahmadani, HE Mohammed bin Mahdi Al Ahbabi, and HE Nasser bin Sulaiman Al Haider.

The meeting agenda included a presentation on the decisions of the 68th Board of Directors meeting, the General Secretariat's work program and the Federation's annual budget for 2027, as well as proposed topics for the 15th consultative meeting between the GCC Ministers of Trade and Industry and heads of federations of chambers of commerce and industry, scheduled to be held tomorrow, Tuesday, in Manama. (QNA)