The 28th Arab League summit held in Jordan will go down in history as the one that devoted considerable attention to daunting socio-political challenges several member states face, most notably on the Palestinian question. This was expected given the proximity of Jordan to Israel. Also, it was a forum for positions to be aired regarding Syria, Iraq and Libya and Yemen.

Still, ministers dealing with different portfolios like finance, trade and energy focused on devising ways to address outstanding economic issues. Worryingly, intra-Arab trade remains low, but with promising opportunities in the years ahead. It is estimated that trade levels among Arab countries hover around 12 per cent of their total trade. Intra-trade levels are considerably higher in blocs such as the EU and Asean.

A primary portion of this trade occurs among Gulf countries thanks to projects like the Gulf Common Market. The GCM, which commenced in 2008, allows for free movement of factors of production within the six-nation grouping.

There is no shortage of prospective integration projects such as a customs union and common market among all Arab countries. The customs union scheme calls for standardised measures on trade; here, the Arab League can build on the success of other examples, including that undertaken by the GCC and elsewhere.

Conversely, a common market is being exceptionally optimistic, as it calls for the free movement of factors of production among a 22-member grouping. Arab countries spread over two-continents, namely Asia and Africa.

Distances among some member states like Bahrain and Morocco are significant, much like between Manama and London, thereby limiting business potential. Additionally, internal conflicts and security risks inside several Arab countries — in Syria, Libya, Yemen and Iraq — undermine intra-trade activity. Against this backdrop, it is difficult to see the realisation of a scheme calling for a rail link involving the 22 Arab states.

Looking forward, one such way to address economic problems within the Arab League is to convene a new summit on top of the three earlier ones to tackle unsettled challenges. Kuwait, Egypt and Saudi Arabia hosted the Arab economic, Development and social summits in 2009, 2011 and 2013, respectively.

The more resourceful Arab states are providing assistance to the less fortunate. Kuwait has a track record of reaching out to others in the Arab League requiring financial assistance. Kuwait extends grants and other means for the development of infrastructure projects.

Other wealthy GCC states are noted for assuming leadership roles in developing major infrastructure schemes in other Arab countries. The UAE is financing expansion of Bahrain’s airport with a grant as part of a regional financial aid package.

GCC airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad, Saudi Arabian Airlines, Air Arabia and Flydubai are extending a helping hand in connecting Arab countries.

The combined population of Arab countries is put at 370 million, but projected to reach around 500 million by 2025 on the back of 2.3 per cent growth. Nearly half of all Arabs are below the age of 20, and this fact carries promises a pool of talented people.

Undoubtedly, this very reality suggests that millions would be entering the job market seeking suitable employment opportunities. Already, jobless rates are in double-digits in several Arab economies and more in conflict-ridden states.

Youngsters can pave a promising future ... provided they get the opportunities to demonstrate their capabilities.

The writer is a Member of Parliament in Bahrain.