NEW YORK / RankWire.AI / – Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi emphasized the need for closer collaboration with Europe to safeguard supply chains for food, energy, and commodities. Speaking in New York on September 24 during the second ministerial session of the Rome Coalition for fertiliser access and food security, he highlighted that maritime disruptions and increased transportation expenses are impacting global trade networks. He further pointed out that these challenges are driving up prices for commodities and food across various regions, including Europe and the Gulf.
The ministerial event was hosted by Italy and Croatia on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly. Croatia, at present, holds the MED9 presidency. The gathering drew representatives from MED9 nations, the Arab League, the Western Balkans, Ukraine, and European institutions. Gulf and United Nations officials also participated. The discussions centered on food security, fertiliser access, and the movement of vital goods through key trade routes, with a focus on pressure points along the Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb, the Strait of Hormuz, and the Black Sea.
Albudaiwi stated that Gulf nations are bolstering supply chain resilience via ports, pipelines, railways, roads, and strategic reserves. He also called for enhanced cooperation to mitigate risks associated with maritime transport and shipping insurance. During periods of disruption, priority should be given to shipments of food, fertiliser, and fuel, he stressed. Additionally, he reaffirmed Gulf states’ commitment to supporting dependable exports amid current security conditions. These remarks underscored the importance of transport infrastructure, storage capacity, and continuous trade in the region’s food and energy security framework.
Focus remains on food and fertiliser transit routes
The Rome Coalition gathering also explored strategies for maintaining open and predictable international trade routes during disruptions. Participants endorsed expanding the use of alternative pathways and strengthening regional storage facilities. Discussions also included investments in port infrastructure and land transport networks. Emphasis was placed on cooperation among producer, transit, and importing nations. Food and Agriculture Organization Director-General Qu Dongyu participated in the meeting, which further examined the roles of international agencies in promoting food security and fertiliser access.
Albudaiwi also called for advancement in economic collaboration between the Gulf Cooperation Council and the European Union. He highlighted areas such as trade, regulation, electricity interconnections, clean hydrogen, and investment as key sectors for development. The European Commission is currently conducting a sustainability impact assessment linked to potential trade agreements with Gulf nations. This consultation, initiated in June, runs until October 19. Meanwhile, the EU is also pursuing separate free trade negotiations with the United Arab Emirates as part of its broader trade strategy in the Gulf region.
Gulf-EU summit to emphasize commercial cooperation
The upcoming second summit between the Gulf Cooperation Council and the European Union is scheduled for October 24 in Saudi Arabia. This meeting continues discussions on trade, energy, investment, and regulatory coordination. European authorities have been exploring options for future trade agreements with Gulf nations, including regional arrangements and bilateral deals. Albudaiwi stated that the summit should facilitate structured dialogue on issues impacting commerce, connectivity, and supply flows, while remaining focused on practical economic cooperation.
The New York event followed the initial Rome Coalition assembly held in Rome on May 7, 2026. Italy and Croatia noted that the recent session concentrated on protecting food and fertiliser supply chains from maritime route pressures. Participants stressed the importance of transport resilience, storage capabilities, and reliable trade flows. The discussions brought together governments, regional groups, and international organizations around shared supply concerns, with food security, fertiliser availability, and access to essential goods remaining central to the agenda.