Doha: The State of Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs, participated in the 11th meeting of Ministers of Islamic Affairs and Endowments of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which took place in Kuwait. The Qatari delegation was led by HE Minister of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs Ghanem bin Shaheen bin Ghanem Al Ghanem.

According to Qatar News Agency, the delegation also included HE Undersecretary of the Ministry Dr. Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Ghanem Al-Thani, Assistant Undersecretary for Islamic Affairs Khalid bin Shaheen Al Ghanem, Director General of the General Administration of Endowments (Awqaf) Eng. Hassan bin Abdullah Al Marzouqi, and Director of the Islamic Affairs Department Mohammed bin Jabr Al Mannai. The meeting’s opening remarks were delivered by HE Minister of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs of Kuwait, Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Wasmi, who highlighted the meetings’ role in fostering unity and integration among GCC states.

The ministers adopted several significant issues, focusing on the exchange of scientific research and experiences in endowments, organizing interactive seminars, and showcasing distinguished experiences in Islamic affairs. Other key decisions included establishing standards for imams’ social roles, preparing an intellectual security charter for mosque imams, and adopting technical guidelines for mosque development.

The importance of employing artificial intelligence in Islamic affairs and exploring a shared vision for historic mosques were also emphasized. Additionally, a GCC scientific observatory was established to highlight Islam’s tolerance, and a national index was developed to measure the societal impact of endowments. A GCC competition was also planned to increase awareness of endowments and charitable work.

The ministers discussed integrating advocacy efforts and best practices to promote moderation and strengthen community partnerships. This meeting provided a strategic platform for the exchange of visions and experiences among the GCC’s Ministries of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, aiming to enhance their social and advocacy roles.

On the sidelines, HE Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Wasmi, who chairs the current session of the GCC Supreme Council, honored the Permanent Committee members and HE Undersecretary Dr. Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Ghanem Al-Thani and Director Mohammed bin Jabr Al Mannai for their contributions.