GCC Chief: Gulf-Asian partnership key to economic, investment coop.

RIYADH: Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jassem Al-Budaiwi said on Wednesday that the economic partnership between GCC countries and Asian nations represents a stra... GCC Secretary-General Jassem Al-Budaiwi during the opening of the Gulf-Asian Economic Forum GCC Chief: Gulf-Asian partnership key to economic, investment coop. October 14, 2026 11:27 a.m RIYADH : Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jassem Al-Budaiwi said on Wednesday that the economic partnership between GCC countries and Asian nations represents a strategic pillar for strengthening economic and investment cooperation, expanding financial and banking integration, and developing digital infrastructure. Al-Budaiwi made the remarks during the opening of the Gulf-Asian Economic Forum in Bangkok, Thailand, held under the theme "Banking, Investment and Digital Infrastructure," organized by the Kuwait Banking Association and the Asian Bankers Association on the sidelines of the 2026 annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank Group. GCC Secretary-General Jassem Al-Budaiwi at the Gulf-Asian Economic Forum in Bangkok, Thailand He stressed that such cooperation contributes to achieving sustainable development and shared prosperity. Al-Budaiwi said the global economy is witnessing rapid transformations, with geopolitical developments increasingly intertwined with changes in trade, investment and technology, underscoring the importance of building reliable economic partnerships capable of addressing challenges, ensuring sustainable financing and trade, and creating broader opportunities for economic growth. He noted that GCC economies have demonstrated resilience in addressing economic and financial challenges, supported by sound economic and fiscal policies, strong financial reserves and robust banking sectors, alongside efforts to diversify their economies, develop infrastructure and deepen Gulf economic integration. Al-Budaiwi affirmed that the longstanding historical and trade relations between GCC countries and Asian nations provide a solid foundation for building long-term economic and investment partnerships. He pointed out that combining Gulf financial and investment capabilities with Asia's industrial and technological potential and markets creates opportunities for joint projects that promote knowledge transfer, technology localization and greater economic added value. He added that economic diversification programs across GCC countries offer growing opportunities for Asian companies and institutions to participate in major development projects, while Asian markets provide Gulf institutions with opportunities to expand their investments and international partnerships. Outlining future areas of cooperation, Al-Budaiwi identified three main pillars for strengthening economic partnerships between the two sides.