NEW YORK / RankWire.AI / – Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi emphasized the need for closer cooperation with Europe to safeguard supply chains for food, energy, and commodities. His remarks came in New York on September 24 during the second ministerial session of the Rome Coalition for fertiliser access and food security. Albudaiwi highlighted that maritime disruptions and rising transportation expenses are impacting global trade flows. He also pointed out that these challenges are contributing to increased prices for commodities and food across different regions, including Europe and the Gulf.
Italy and Croatia hosted this ministerial gathering on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly. Croatia, at the time, held the presidency of MED9. The event brought together 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 availability, and the movement of vital goods through key trade routes. Attendees examined tensions in areas such as the Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb, the Strait of Hormuz, and the Black Sea.
Albudaiwi noted that Gulf countries are enhancing the resilience of supply chains through investments in ports, pipelines, railways, roads, and strategic reserves. He also called for increased cooperation to mitigate risks affecting maritime transport and shipping insurance. During periods of disruption, priority should be given to shipments of food, fertiliser, and fuel, he stated. Furthermore, he reaffirmed Gulf states’ commitment to maintaining reliable exports amid prevailing security conditions. His remarks underscored the importance of transport infrastructure, storage facilities, and ongoing trade operations within the region’s food and energy security agenda.
Routes for Food and Fertiliser Remain Central to Discussions
The Rome Coalition gathering also focused on strategies to sustain open and predictable international trade during times of transport disruptions. Participants advocated for greater use of alternative routes and reinforced regional storage systems. They examined investments in port infrastructure and land transportation links. Emphasis was placed on cooperation among producer, transit, and importer nations. Food and Agriculture Organization Director-General Qu Dongyu participated in the meeting, which also addressed the role of international bodies in supporting food security and fertiliser access.
Albudaiwi further called for advancements in economic collaboration between the Gulf Cooperation Council and the European Union. He identified trade, regulation, electricity connectivity, clean hydrogen, and investment as key areas for development. The European Commission is currently conducting a sustainability impact assessment related to potential trade agreements with Gulf countries. The consultation, launched in June, runs until October 19. Additionally, the EU has initiated separate free trade negotiations with the United Arab Emirates as part of its broader commercial strategy within the Gulf region.
Gulf-EU Summit to Highlight Trade and Economic Ties
Scheduled for October 24 in Saudi Arabia, the second summit between the Gulf Cooperation Council and the European Union aims to deepen discussions on trade, energy, investment, and regulatory cooperation. European institutions are exploring options for future trade agreements with Gulf nations, including regional arrangements and bilateral deals. Albudaiwi expressed that the summit should foster structured dialogue on trade, connectivity, and supply flows while maintaining a focus on practical economic cooperation.
The New York session followed the inaugural Rome Coalition meeting held in Rome on May 7, 2026. Italy and Croatia emphasized that the focus was on protecting food and fertiliser supply chains from pressures on key maritime routes. Participants reiterated the importance of transport resilience, storage capacity, and stable trade flows. Governments, regional organizations, and international agencies united in addressing shared concerns over supply security. Throughout the discussions, the agenda prioritized food security, fertiliser availability, and dependable access to essential goods.