KUWAIT: Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Information Ministers launched the pilot version of a joint news application for Gulf news agencies, available on smartphones and tablets. The announcement came during the 28th meeting of GCC Information Ministers on Monday, chaired by Kuwait’s Minister of Information, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, with the participation of GCC Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Al-Budaiwi.
The new app aims to provide reliable and direct news content from the official news agencies of member states, reflecting the Council’s commitment to keeping pace with technological developments and boosting the presence of Gulf media on both regional and international levels. Speaking at the meeting, Al-Mutairi described the app as “an advanced step toward enhancing joint Gulf media efforts and unifying the dissemination of credible and rapid information.”
He added that the initiative embodies the spirit of cooperation among GCC states and highlights a shared commitment to using modern technology to meet the aspirations of Gulf citizens and elevate the visibility of Gulf media globally. Secretary General Al-Budaiwi praised the application as a “quantum leap in Gulf media,” noting that it was designed using the latest artificial intelligence technologies, allowing users to have direct access to official news from Gulf news agencies. This includes live streaming of radio and television channels, access to photo and video archives, and integration with each agency’s social media channels.
Growing challenges
Al-Budaiwi emphasized the growing media challenges facing GCC states, saying: “We are confronted with organized disinformation campaigns and false narratives targeting our nations’ security and social cohesion across various platforms. This requires more integrated and coordinated media collaboration than ever before.” He called for increased joint efforts to combat fake news, misleading content, and harmful anonymous accounts aimed at sowing discord. Kuwait, he said, fully supports all initiatives that promote awareness, strengthen Gulf identity, and highlight regional achievements. Al-Mutairi also stressed the pivotal role now played by the GCC in shaping media strategies and defending Gulf causes. “Developing joint media work is no longer a luxury but a strategic necessity amid rapid digital transformation and the spread of information,” he said.
Unified messaging
The meeting discussed several key topics and joint media initiatives proposed by technical teams and specialized committees from member states. These initiatives aim to bolster collaborative media efforts and develop professional capacities within the sector. “This meeting marks a new milestone in supporting shared initiatives, unifying media messaging, and expanding cooperation in areas such as training, legislation, and modern media technologies,” Al-Mutairi noted.
At the conclusion of the session, Al-Mutairi expressed pride in the Gulf states’ growing influence regionally and globally. “Our ability to host and participate in major events across various fields is not accidental — it is the result of strategic planning and investment in Gulf talent,” he said. Al-Budaiwi added that the GCC countries enjoy a prominent position on the regional and international media map, thanks to the continued support of Gulf leaders. “Our leadership has consistently emphasized the importance of media as a tool for enlightenment, a platform for defending our causes, and a means to reflect the bright reality of our collective journey,” he said.
He also stressed the need to build global media partnerships to ensure the Gulf voice is heard clearly and effectively on the world stage. This is particularly critical amid today’s fast-evolving global and regional dynamics, which require Gulf media institutions to coordinate and adapt in order to showcase the region’s accomplishments — especially in economic integration, digital transformation, infrastructure development, and innovation.
