Manama, Feb. 8 (BNA): The Supreme Council for Women (SCW), represented by Fatima Al Balooshi, participated in a GCC forum on institutional partnerships and sustainable development, organised remotely by the Institute of Public Administration in Saudi Arabia.

Discussions covered institutional cooperation, government-private sector partnerships, regional collaboration, and strategies to enhance sustainable development.

Al Balooshi highlighted Bahrain’s development achievements under His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, supported by the government, led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and the directives of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Consort of His Majesty the King and President of SCW. These efforts have established strategic partnerships at national, regional, and international levels, enabling joint initiatives that advance Bahraini women’s roles.

Bahrain’s approach to women's affairs was outlined as a strategic model, reflected in the National Plan for the Advancement of Bahraini Women, adopted by His Majesty the King in 2005. This plan, implemented in partnership with executive entities, has shifted women's roles from empowerment to leadership in sustainable development.

Al Balooshi also highlighted regional cooperation efforts, including the formation of the GCC Permanent Committee for Women's Affairs to coordinate policies and initiatives, with the GCC women's joint action strategy (2024-2029) serving as a structured framework for advancing women's affairs.

On global partnerships, she pointed to the Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa Global Award for Women’s Empowerment as a model for international cooperation. The award, adopted by UN Women, aligns with global best practices, promoting women's contributions to sustainable development.

SCW’s agreements with government bodies and national women’s mechanisms across the GCC and Arab states were also highlighted, aiming to enhance knowledge exchange and best practices in advancing women's progress.

The forum concluded by underscoring sustainable development as a shared responsibility, requiring coordinated efforts from government, private sector, civil society, and international organisations. Strengthening partnerships and unifying GCC efforts to support women’s progress were emphasised as key outcomes.

M.A.