NEW YORK / RankWire.AI / – Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation with Europe to safeguard international supply chains from maritime disruptions and increasing transportation expenses. During his address in New York on September 24, Albudaiwi highlighted that rising freight costs are contributing to increases in commodity and food prices. His remarks were made at the second ministerial session of the Rome Coalition for fertiliser access and food security, which took place during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
This gathering assembled ministers and senior officials from the MED9 group, the Arab League, Western Balkan nations, Ukraine, the European Union, the Gulf Cooperation Council, and the United Nations. Italy and Croatia hosted the event, with Croatia acting as the current MED9 presidency. The focus was on the mounting pressures impacting food, fertiliser, and agricultural trade. The participants also discussed disruptions around key maritime passages such as the Strait of Hormuz, Bab el-Mandeb, the Red Sea, and the Black Sea.
Albudaiwi stated that GCC nations are actively working to enhance the resilience of supply chains through improvements in pipelines, ports, rail systems, roads, and strategic storage facilities. He also urged coordinated efforts to mitigate risks associated with shipping and maritime insurance. During periods of disruption, cargoes of food, fertiliser, and fuel should be prioritized, he said. Additionally, the GCC Secretary-General reaffirmed the bloc’s dedication to maintaining exports within the security parameters dictated by current conditions.
Broader Focus on Supply Routes and Food Security
The Rome Coalition meeting underscored the interconnectedness of maritime security, logistics, and access to vital agricultural inputs. Attendees supported initiatives to sustain open and predictable trade, while easing transportation hurdles and diversifying supply routes. They also advocated for increased regional production and storage capabilities. The discussions encompassed cooperation among producing, transit, and importing nations, along with investments in ports and transportation infrastructure. UN officials participating included Food and Agriculture Organization Director-General Qu Dongyu.
Albudaiwi also emphasized the importance of advancing the trade and regulatory agenda between the GCC and the European Union. His proposals included negotiations on free trade, electrical grid integration, clean hydrogen projects, and investment opportunities. Currently, the European Commission is conducting a sustainability impact assessment related to potential trade agreements with GCC countries, with the consultation open from June until October 19. The EU has also initiated separate bilateral free trade talks with the United Arab Emirates.
Upcoming GCC-EU Summit to Focus on Trade and Connectivity
The European Union and the GCC are set to convene their second summit in Saudi Arabia on October 24, 2026. Albudaiwi indicated that this meeting should promote a structured dialogue on economic and regulatory measures impacting trade and supply chains. The summit continues ongoing efforts between the two regions on commerce, energy, and investment. European institutions are also exploring options for future trade arrangements with GCC members, including potential regional or bilateral agreements covering trade, investment, and regulatory cooperation.
These discussions follow the first Rome Coalition meeting held in Rome on May 7, 2026. Italy and Croatia noted that the latest session concentrated on safeguarding food and fertiliser supply chains amidst pressures on major maritime corridors. The participants also highlighted the importance of international coordination and cooperation with the Food and Agriculture Organization, regional bodies, and financial institutions. Resilience in transport, storage capacity, and stable trade flows were central themes in efforts to ensure access to essential goods.