ShareKUWAIT: Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, who is also Chairman of the Supreme Organizing Committee for Khaleeji Zain 26, highlighted the importance of the “Diwan Al-Khaleej Forum” as a platform for communication, collaboration and exchange of ideas and expertise among Gulf youth. He stated that such efforts contribute to enhancing Gulf cooperation.
Speaking on Monday at the forum’s closing ceremony, which lasted four days, Al-Mutairi expressed gratitude for the patronage of HH the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and the support of HH the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, as well as the follow-up of HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah. “The participation of over 120 speakers who shared their unique experiences through discussions, workshops and presentations proves that dialogue and idea exchange can lay the foundation for a better future for our youth and nations,” he said.
Al-Mutairi further emphasized the pride in hosting Gulf nationals who participated in Kuwait’s successful organization of Khaleeji Zain 26, which underscores the strong bonds among Gulf nations. He praised the efforts of Kuwaiti youth, particularly those from the “Harvard Diwan”, who played a pivotal role in the forum’s success, and thanked all entities that contributed to the success of this significant event.
The minister also toured the forum’s workshops, lectures, art exhibition and events hosted by the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters and the Dar Al-Athar Al-Islamiyyah. He attended a sports performance by members of the Warba Club for Persons with Disabilities.
Sheikh Al-Yousef commends Gulf Cup efforts
Sheikh Ahmad Al-Yousef, Chairman of the Kuwait Football Association and Vice Chairman of the Supreme Organizing Committee, lauded the tremendous efforts of all those involved in organizing Khaleeji Zain 26, currently taking place in Kuwait.
“The tournament has garnered attention due to the committee’s efforts to overcome challenges and create an ideal sporting and social atmosphere for participating delegations and visiting fans,” Sheikh Ahmad said. He described the tournament’s timing as ideal and noted that participating teams are fielding their best lineups to compete for the prestigious title. Regarding Kuwait’s national team (Al-Azraq), Sheikh Ahmad revealed their unsuccessful attempt to replace defender Hassan Hamdan, who was ruled out due to injury. Tournament rules prohibit substitutions after the first match.
Looking ahead, Sheikh Ahmad said the focus post-tournament will be on developing young players to ensure the team’s sustained success. He expressed admiration for the significant fan turnout and the camaraderie among fans in various venues, which reflects the Gulf Cup’s role in fostering unity.
The Gulf Football Federation will hold its General Assembly meeting at 12:00 pm on Thursday. The agenda includes discussions on enhancing collaboration among Gulf federations to develop football in the region. The meeting will also announce the host country for the next Gulf Cup, “Gulf Cup 27”, showcasing a commitment to regional cooperation and advancing Gulf sports. In other news, the second round of Group B matches will feature Yemen vs. Saudi Arabia at 5:30 pm at Jaber Mubarak Stadium and Iraq vs Bahrain at 8:30 pm at Jaber Al-Ahmad Stadium.
Coaches speak up
Yemen coach Noureddine Ould Ali acknowledged the difficulty of facing Saudi Arabia, referring to the match as critical for the Saudis after their loss to Bahrain. “Saudi Arabia has strong players, especially in attack,” he noted, mentioning Salem Al-Dawsari and Musab Al-Juwair. “We’ll give it our all to stand firm against them,” he added.
Saudi coach Herve Renard admitted his team hasn’t been at its best in recent months but remains optimistic about qualifying for the semifinals. “We need to reflect and work harder,” Renard said, urging fans to remain hopeful. Iraq coach Jesus Casas described the upcoming match against Bahrain as highly competitive. Despite limited preparation time, Casas expressed confidence in achieving a positive result. Bahrain coach Dragan Talayich expressed readiness to face Iraq, emphasizing respect for their opponents and focusing on delivering a strong performance.
Art and culture
Fans attending Khaleeji Zain 26 shifted their focus on Monday from the stadiums to Souq Al-Mubarakiya, creating a festive and joyful atmosphere that highlighted Gulf unity. Meanwhile, an exhibition featuring over 80 caricatures by 40 Gulf artists opened at Al-Arabi Club. The event, organized by the Kuwaiti Caricature Society, celebrates Gulf football heritage and unity.
