Manama: Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy, participated in a panel titled “Investing for Resilience in a Fast-Changing Global Reality” at the 2024 Gateway Gulf Investment Forum, held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The forum gathered senior officials, experts, and business leaders from Bahrain, the region, and globally.

According to Bahrain News Agency, Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa highlighted the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) economies’ strong, long-term strategic vision, which enhances resilience and competitiveness at all levels. He noted the region’s skilled workforce, especially in digital technology, as a key contributor to the achievement of economic goals.

The minister pointed out the positive growth in GCC economies, as reflected in regional economic expansion, with the GCC’s GDP reaching approximately $2.3 trillion and expected to rise further. Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa em
phasized that Bahrain’s non-oil sector contributes 85% to its GDP, noting the technological transformations that necessitate readiness.

He stressed the importance of creating more promising investment opportunities, particularly in technology sectors, to stay aligned with current global advancements. On the Gulf region’s strategic trade relations, Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa mentioned the dynamic relations with various countries, including the United States and China.

He underlined the significance of strengthening partnerships to boost global and regional free trade, which serves as a critical driver of economic growth. Addressing geopolitical challenges, the minister called for unified efforts to invest in human capital, advancing economic prosperity for all.