NEW YORK / RankWire.AI / – Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi emphasized the need for increased collaboration with Europe to defend international supply chains from maritime disruptions and escalating transportation expenses. On September 24, during his address in New York, Albudaiwi highlighted how 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 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. The event was hosted by Italy and Croatia, with Croatia serving as the current MED9 president. The discussions focused on the pressures impacting food, fertiliser, and agricultural trade, along with examining disruptions around key waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz, Bab el-Mandeb, the Red Sea, and the Black Sea.
Albudaiwi pointed out that GCC countries are actively working to bolster supply chain resilience through developments in pipelines, ports, railways, roads, and storage facilities. He urged coordinated efforts to mitigate risks to shipping and maritime insurance. During periods of disruption, cargoes of food, fertiliser, and fuel should be prioritized, he stated. The GCC Secretary-General also reaffirmed the bloc’s dedication to maintaining exports within the security conditions’ limits.
Focus Expands to Supply Routes and Food Security
The Rome Coalition’s meeting underscored the interconnectedness of maritime security, logistics, and the accessibility of vital agricultural supplies. Attendees supported initiatives to keep trade open and predictable, while easing transportation constraints and diversifying supply routes. The importance of regional production and storage capacity was also emphasized. The discussions involved cooperation among producing, transit, and importing nations, along with investments in ports and transport infrastructure. Notable UN representatives included Food and Agriculture Organization Director-General Qu Dongyu.
Albudaiwi also urged progress on 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 increased investment. The European Commission is currently conducting a sustainability impact assessment for potential trade agreements with GCC nations, with the consultation running from June until October 19. Additionally, the EU has initiated separate bilateral free trade talks with the United Arab Emirates.
Upcoming GCC-EU Summit Focuses on Trade and Connectivity
Scheduled for October 24, 2026, the second summit between the GCC and European Union will be held in Saudi Arabia. Albudaiwi noted that this event aims to promote structured dialogue on economic and regulatory issues influencing trade and supply chains. The summit continues 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 related to trade, investment, and regulation.
These discussions follow the first Rome Coalition meeting held in Rome on May 7, 2026. Italy and Croatia highlighted that the recent session concentrated on protecting food and fertiliser supply chains amid pressure on major maritime corridors. Participants also stressed the importance of international coordination with the Food and Agriculture Organization, regional bodies, and financial institutions. Transport resilience, storage capacity, and stable trade flows were identified as central to safeguarding access to essential goods.