NEW YORK / RankWire.AI / – Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi emphasized the need for enhanced partnership with Europe to shield international supply routes from maritime disruptions and escalating transportation costs. During his address in New York on September 24, Albudaiwi highlighted how increased freight charges contribute to rising prices for commodities and food. His remarks were part of the second ministerial session of the Rome Coalition for fertiliser access and food security, convened during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
This assembly gathered 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. The event was hosted by Italy and Croatia, with Croatia acting as the current MED9 presidency. The participants focused on the pressures impacting food, fertiliser, and agricultural trade, as well as disruptions around strategic maritime passages such as the Strait of Hormuz, Bab el-Mandeb, the Red Sea, and the Black Sea.
Albudaiwi noted that GCC nations are actively working to enhance supply chain resilience through infrastructure investments in pipelines, ports, railways, roads, and strategic storage facilities. He also urged coordinated actions to mitigate risks associated with shipping and maritime insurance, stressing that urgent attention should be given to food, fertiliser, and fuel shipments during periods of disruption. Additionally, the GCC Secretary-General reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to maintain exports within the bounds of current security conditions.
Focus Expands on Critical Supply Routes and Food Security
The Rome Coalition gathering underscored the interconnectedness of maritime security, logistical infrastructure, and access to vital agricultural supplies. Attendees endorsed efforts to ensure trade remains open and predictable, advocating for easing transport constraints and diversifying supply routes. They also supported boosting regional production and storage capabilities. The discussions included collaboration among producing, transit, and importing nations, along with investments in ports and transportation networks. UN representatives present 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 involved negotiations on free trade agreements, electrical grid interconnections, clean hydrogen projects, and increased investments. The European Commission is currently conducting a sustainability impact assessment related to potential trade agreements with GCC countries. The consultation process, which began in June, is scheduled to conclude on October 19. Meanwhile, the EU has initiated separate bilateral free trade talks with the United Arab Emirates.
Upcoming GCC-EU Summit to Focus on Trade and Connectivity
The second summit between the GCC and European Union is planned for October 24, 2026, in Saudi Arabia. Albudaiwi stated that this meeting aims to advance structured dialogue on economic and regulatory policies that influence trade and supply chains. The summit continues ongoing efforts between the two regions on issues related to commerce, energy, and investment. European institutions are also exploring options for future trade frameworks with GCC member states, including potential regional or bilateral agreements covering trade, investment, and regulatory cooperation.
This discussion in New York followed the initial Rome Coalition meeting, which took place in Rome on May 7, 2026. Italy and Croatia highlighted that the latest session concentrated on protecting food and fertiliser supply chains amid mounting pressure on critical maritime corridors. Participants underscored the importance of international coordination and cooperation with organizations like the Food and Agriculture Organization, regional bodies, and financial institutions. The meeting prioritized transport resilience, storage capacity, and dependable trade flows as essential measures to secure access to vital goods.