Muscat: On Wednesday, the National Defence College (NDC) welcomed the distinguished guest, Jasem Mohamed Al Budaiwi, the Secretary General of the GCC, who delivered an enlightening lecture titled "The Gulf Cooperation Council: The Ambitions and Challenges."
This lecture was an integral part of the curriculum for the 12th course of the NDC (Academy of Strategic and Defence Studies), enriching the educational experience of the students.
During his presentation, Al Budaiwi delved into the implications of global competition on GCC states, the impact of global crises on the economies and investments of GCC states, and the role of the GCC in mitigating global conflicts and crises. The lecture also addressed the implications for food security and the future aspirations of GCC states.
In line with the academic schedule, the NDC also hosted Dr. Salman Al Farsi, the Secretary General of the Indian Ocean Rim Association, for a lecture titled “Indian Ocean Rim Association and its Role in Global Development.”
Dr. Salman Al Farsi emphasized the Association’s pivotal role in fostering economic cooperation among member states and global economic blocs. The lecture shed light on the Association’s contributions to the liberalization of trade exchange, the acceleration of the flow of goods, services, investments, and technology among member states, and the enhancement of dialogue on economic, regional, and international issues.
Furthermore, Dr. Salman discussed the Association’s efforts in promoting joint investments and maximizing the mutual benefits from shared capabilities and complementary roles, with the objective of enhancing the competitiveness of member states’ products on a global scale.
The lectures were graced by Rear Admiral Ali Abdullah Al Shidi, the Commandant of the National Defence College, along with senior officers from the Sultan's Armed Forces (SAF), military and security units, government officials, and representatives from the NDC.
