Manama: The State of Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs, took part virtually in the 40th meeting of the Standing Committee of Experts in Islamic Affairs and Endowments of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, chaired by the Kingdom of Bahrain. The meeting was part of efforts to reinforce Gulf cooperation and integration in Islamic affairs and endowments.

According to Qatar News Agency, the Awqaf delegation was headed by HE Undersecretary of the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs Dr. Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Ghanem Al-Thani. Director of the Department of Islamic Affairs Mohammed Jabr Al Mannai, along with representatives from GCC states, also participated. The meeting focused on advancing Islamic and endowment actions and their social and developmental impacts.

Key topics included the GCC Endowment Week as an awareness initiative to highlight the role of endowments, and the development of a national indicator to measure endowment impact in society. This initiative aims to foster governance, transparency, and efficiency in endowment administration.

The meeting explored mechanisms for sharing expertise in Islamic affairs among member states to enhance knowledge exchange and successful practices. Discussions also covered the architectural identity of mosque minarets, balancing traditional Islamic designs with modern architectural requirements.

Participants emphasized the importance of unified visions and efforts among GCC states on common issues to advance institutional work in Islamic affairs and endowments, thereby serving society and promoting moderate Islamic values. Awqaf's participation underscores its commitment to supporting joint Gulf initiatives and projects that develop endowments and align with GCC strategic objectives.