Doha: Qatar Museums today hosted the 22nd meeting of the GCC Undersecretaries Responsible for Antiquities and Museums, in collaboration with the GCC General Secretariat. The agenda of the meeting will encompass a review of the significant decisions made during the 21st session, chaired by Sultanate of Oman in 2023, ensuring follow-up on key outcomes. These decisions play a crucial role in advancing the collective efforts within the fields of antiquities and museums, while enhancing relationships among GCC countries, friendly nations, and international organizations operating in these spheres. The meeting featured a recognition ceremony, honoring prestigious antiquities and museum specialists. Additionally, participating delegations had the opportunity to explore one of the archaeological sites during a guided tour. Qatar Museums CEO Mohammed Saad Al Rumaihi chaired the meeting, in the presence of the representative of the GCC General Secretariat, and representatives of the GCC countries. Mohammed Saad Al Rumaihi said, "This assembly underscores our commitment to foster cultural and heritage cooperation among our nations. Together, we are crafting a roadmap to safeguard our heritage and elevate our cultural standing on the global stage. Effective cooperation, both globally and locally, is paramount in the preservation of our monuments and the evolution of our museums. We are dedicated to fostering cooperative efforts aimed at enriching our cultural heritage and showcasing it to the global community using cutting-edge scientific approaches. We extend heartfelt appreciation to all individuals who have contributed, and continue to contribute, to these endeavors." In turn, Director of the National Museum of Qatar Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Hamad Al-Thani commented, "This programme marks a significant stride in translating the directives and recommendations laid out during the 21st GCC Undersecretaries Responsible for Antiquities and Museums meeting, reaffirming our dedication to fortify cultural and heritage cooperation . It presents a distinctive opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of our region's history, delving into ancient civilizations through interactive sessions and educational visits that illuminate the richness and intricacies of our cultural heritage." Director of the Archaeology Department at Qatar Museums Faisal Al Naimi told Qatar News Agency that this meeting serves the interest of Gulf culture and tourism, yielding decisions in relation to holding trainings, specialist visits, and archaeological missions. Al Naimi noted that on the sidelines of the meeting, a number of those working in the archiological and museum sectors were honored, following a similar recognition made recently for owners of private museum with contributions, adding that a private museums guide was issued, unifying the gulf region geographically and historically, which also features those honored. One of those honored is private museum owner Khaled Al Ajmi, who told QNA that this recognition ceremony is a great show of appreciation and honoring for the efforts made in the heritage sector, adding that such recognition could have a great impact on the lives of private museum owners and amateurs, as it boosts their confidence and motivate them to do more, continuing that it also hightens the spirit of the collective. This event underscores Qatar Museums unwavering commitment to enhancing cooperation in culture and heritage, further solidifying its position as a pivotal cultural hub in the region. It also exemplifies the State of Qatars steadfast dedication to fostering the growth and development of the cultural and heritage sector. Source: Qatar News Agency