NEW YORK / RankWire.AI / – Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration with Europe to shield international supply networks from maritime disturbances and escalating transportation expenses. During a speech in New York on September 24, Albudaiwi pointed out that increased freight costs are contributing to rises 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.
The 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. Hosted by Italy and Croatia, with Croatia acting as the current MED9 presidency, the focus was on the pressures impacting food, fertiliser, and agricultural trade. Disruptions around key maritime corridors such as the Strait of Hormuz, Bab el-Mandeb, the Red Sea, and the Black Sea were also examined.
Albudaiwi highlighted the GCC’s efforts to bolster supply chain resilience through investments in pipelines, ports, rail systems, roads, and strategic storage facilities. He urged coordinated actions to mitigate risks faced by shipping and maritime insurance. Urgent attention is needed for cargoes of food, fertiliser, and fuel during periods of disruption, he stated. The GCC Secretary-General reaffirmed the bloc’s dedication to ensuring that exports remain within security limits.
Focus Extends to Critical Supply Routes and Food Security
The Rome Coalition’s meeting underscored the interconnectedness of maritime security, logistics, and access to vital agricultural supplies. Participants endorsed initiatives to keep trade open and predictable, while easing transportation constraints and diversifying supply routes. They also supported expanding regional production and storage capacities. Discussions involved cooperation among producing, transit, and importing nations, alongside investments in ports and transport infrastructure. UN officials, including Food and Agriculture Organization Director-General Qu Dongyu, participated in the talks.
Albudaiwi also urged progress in the trade and regulatory agenda between the GCC and the European Union. His proposals included free trade negotiations, electrical grid interconnections, clean hydrogen projects, and investment opportunities. The European Commission is currently conducting a sustainability impact assessment related to potential trade agreements with GCC countries. The consultation, which opened in June, will run until October 19. Additionally, the EU has begun bilateral free trade negotiations 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 scheduled for October 24, 2026, in Saudi Arabia. Albudaiwi indicated that this meeting should promote structured dialogue on economic and regulatory policies influencing trade and supply chains. This summit continues the ongoing efforts between the two regions in areas such as commerce, energy, and investment. European institutions are also exploring future trade arrangements with GCC members, including regional or bilateral agreements covering trade, investment, and regulatory cooperation.
The discussions in New York built on the first Rome Coalition meeting held in Rome on May 7, 2026. Italy and Croatia noted that the recent session concentrated on protecting food and fertiliser supply chains amid pressures on key maritime routes. Participants emphasized the importance of international coordination and cooperation with organizations like the Food and Agriculture Organization, regional entities, and financial institutions. Resilience in transportation, storage capacity, and reliable trade routes were central themes in safeguarding access to essential goods.