The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) convened a special gathering on March 8 at its headquarters in Riyadh to observe International Women’s Day, lauding the strides made by women hailing from the Gulf region. Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Elkhereiji stood in for Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan at the occasion, graced by the presence of Qatari Minister for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi and various dignitaries. Elkhereiji emphasized the significance of empowering women, aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, and acknowledged the pivotal societal role of women. He underscored Saudi Arabia's steadfast commitment to upholding women's rights, eradicating discrimination, and bolstering support for women across all domains. Elkhereiji also shed light on the challenges confronting Palestinian women in Gaza due to Israeli transgressions against international norms, urging an immediate cessation of hostilities and adherence to international humanitarian statutes.
Dr. Hala Al-Tuwaijri, the president of the Saudi Human Rights Commission, expressed her pride in being amongst accomplished women representing the GCC and emphasized the continual need to acknowledge women's accomplishments. Joining her were panelists including Emirati photographer and anthropologist Noura Al-Neyadi, Bahrain's Supreme Council for Women secretary-general Lulwa Al-Awadhi, Omani author Jokha Alharthi, and Kuwait's Women’s Cultural and Social Society secretary-general Ghada Youssef Al-Ghanim.
Al-Tuwaijri stressed the importance of highlighting the diverse achievements of women across various sectors and expressed optimism about the empowerment of women in Saudi Arabia and the broader Gulf region, citing the attainment of the 30-percent participation rate set for 2030 and the myriad opportunities available to women.
GCC secretary-general Jasem Albudaiwi commended the accomplishments of Gulf women and acknowledged the unwavering support from GCC leaders in advancing women's involvement in societal progress. Throughout the event, the panelists were honored with trophies for their contributions to Gulf society, symbolizing their dedication and impact in fostering positive change and gender equality.
