KUWAIT CITY, Feb 17: Minister of State for Communications and Information Technology and acting Minister of Information and Culture Omar Al-Omar stressed that unifying the vision on joint Gulf media production is a strategic step toward shaping a balanced and responsible media discourse as per the aspirations of leaders, responds to the awareness of our generations, and safeguards heritage in a world marked by accelerating changes, expanding platforms and mounting challenges.

Al-Omar delivered a speech as the representative of His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah during the celebration of the Joint Program Production Institution of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) held recently at the Sheikh Jaber Al- Ahmad Cultural Center, commemorating its 50th anniversary. With the theme, “Fifty Years of Gulf Tales,” the event was held under the patronage of His Highness the Prime Minister.

Al-Omar stated that the Foundation represents a well-established media institution and a pioneering model of media cooperation among GCC countries. It has contributed to consolidating the Gulf presence as a platform for awareness, a source of culture, a mirror of identity, and a bridge of communication among the peoples of the region. He pointed out that 50 years is not merely a span of time but a prolonged journey of institutional collaboration, during which the Foundation has succeeded, through its diverse productions, in addressing generations, instilling values, and reinforcing Gulf and Arab identity. Its works have become an integral part of the collective memory of Gulf families and a hallmark of quality, purposeful content that blends authenticity with innovation. He continued stating that Kuwait has consistently affirmed its belief that media and culture are fundamental pillars in building individuals and shaping awareness.

This belief is reflected in its continuous support for joint Gulf media and cultural initiatives, stemming from its conviction that collective Gulf action ensures the strengthening of regional and international presence. He emphasized support for the development and modernization approach adopted by the institution’s current administration, as well as the project submitted to the GCC Secretariat General. The project includes recommendations aimed at enhancing governance, consolidating regulatory frameworks, and ensuring sustainable, efficient and professional performance. He said the next phase requires a deeper and more comprehensive vision that keeps pace with rapid transformations in the media industry, invests in modern technologies, and strengthens joint Gulf content to make it more influential, competitive, and present at the regional and international levels.

He pointed out that the responsibility today extends beyond preserving the legacy, as it also involves developing and expanding its impact in a manner that reinforces Gulf media as a form of soft power expressing values, preserving identity, and strengthening unity. He expressed his aspiration for a more prominent and influential institution that builds upon its rich heritage and confidently advances toward the future as an active partner in fostering unified Gulf awareness and a media landscape that reflects a bright and civilized image. He commended the efforts of all those who have contributed to the institution’s journey since its establishment, from the founding fathers to the dedicated staff who have served with sincerity and devotion, thereby, creating a lasting media legacy in the hearts of Gulf citizens. He stated that their contributions are regarded as a sincere message transcending time, and that their impact will remain firmly embedded in the memory of joint Gulf action. He expressed hope that the institution will continue to serve the people and embody the spirit of cooperation upon which the shared Gulf journey is founded.

Meanwhile, GCC Secretary General Jassim Al-Budaiwi expressed his deepest gratitude and appreciation to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad for Kuwait’s generous patronage and unwavering support in hosting the headquarters of the GCC and its institutions. He added that this is a genuine commitment to strengthening Gulf cooperation. He emphasized that the Foundation is not just a media production entity but a pioneering Gulf institution that utilizes media as an effective tool for education and awareness-building, reinforcing Gulf identity and consolidating the principles of unity and integration among the peoples of the region. He said this proves the vital role of media in supporting development and keeping pace with rapid transformations responsibly and purposefully.

Sheikh Mubarak Fahad Al-Jaber, Director General of the Joint Program Production Foundation, stated that the entity has never been simply a production institution but rather an idea and a symbol of joint Gulf action, as well as a cornerstone of Gulf media. He affirmed that since its inception, the Foundation has carried a clear civilizational message: to shape awareness, preserve identity, transmit Gulf and Arab culture to successive generations, and serve as a window to the world and a voice reflecting shared values and traditions. He added that they do not merely manage a production institution but serve as custodians of the cultural memory of a unified Gulf. He explained that amid rapidly evolving media challenges affecting societies — particularly youths and children — the institution’s role today is to serve as a safe and reliable source in a rapidly changing world.

“The significance of this role is now more evident than ever, not only culturally but also as a component of intellectual security and societal identity,” he asserted. He added that like other long-standing institutions, the Foundation has experienced various phases in its influence on the conscience of Gulf and Arab generations, which necessitates maximizing its role. He stated that developing the institution is an extension of its established mission, as renewing its tools serves to protect identity. He stated that in compliance with the directives of GCC leaders and the recommendations of the ministers of Information, efforts have been made to develop the institution’s operational mechanisms in a way that enhances its standing, preserves its history, and strengthens its mission through structured institutional work based on integrated planning and the utilization of specialized expertise.

Morever, the ceremony, presented by esteemed artist Jassim Al-Nabhan, featured a documentary film highlighting the institution’s journey, history, and most prominent media and program productions over five decades, underscoring its role in strengthening joint media cooperation among GCC countries. The event included a distinctive theatrical performance accompanied by a live musical ensemble, whose melodies took the audience on a nostalgic journey, blending imagery and music to evoke the innocence and beauty of Gulf childhood memories.

Children also performed artistic dances inspired by timeless works produced by the Foundation, from Open Sesame to Your Well-being, along with other prominent programs that have shaped the awareness of successive generations. The performance evoked feelings of pride and appreciation for a deeply rooted Gulf media legacy. A photo exhibition was also held on the sidelines of the event, showcasing the history of the institution and its most notable program productions.

By Mohammad Al-Enezi Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff