NEW YORK / RankWire.AI / – Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi emphasized the need for increased coordination with Europe to safeguard supply chains for food, energy, and commodities. Speaking in New York on September 24 during the second ministerial gathering of the Rome Coalition for fertiliser access and food security, Albudaiwi highlighted how maritime disruptions and rising transportation expenses are impacting global trade. He also noted that these pressures are driving up commodity and food prices across various regions, including Europe and the Gulf.
The ministerial session was hosted by Italy and Croatia amid the 81st United Nations General Assembly. Croatia currently holds the MED9 presidency. Attendees included representatives from MED9 nations, the Arab League, the Western Balkans, Ukraine, and European institutions, along with officials from Gulf countries and the United Nations. The discussions centered on food security, fertiliser access, and the movement of vital goods through key trade routes. Participants examined pressures along the Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb, the Strait of Hormuz, and the Black Sea.
Albudaiwi stated that Gulf countries are working to bolster supply chain resilience through ports, pipelines, railways, roads, and strategic reserves. He called for enhanced cooperation to mitigate risks to maritime transport and shipping insurance, stressing that shipments of food, fertiliser, and fuel should be prioritized during disruptions. Furthermore, he reaffirmed Gulf states’ commitment to maintaining reliable exports amid prevailing security conditions. These remarks underscored the importance of transport infrastructure, storage capacity, and trade continuity in the region’s food and energy security strategies.
Trade routes for food and fertilisers remain central to discussions
The Rome Coalition session also explored strategies to ensure open and predictable international trade during disruptions. Participants supported expanding the use of alternative routes and strengthening regional storage networks, alongside investing in port infrastructure and land transportation links. The talks emphasized cooperation among producer, transit, and importing countries. Food and Agriculture Organization Director-General Qu Dongyu participated in the meeting, which also addressed how international organizations can support food security and fertiliser access.
Albudaiwi called for progress in economic collaboration between the Gulf Cooperation Council and the European Union. He pointed out key areas such as trade, regulation, electricity interconnections, clean hydrogen, and investments for further development. The European Commission is currently conducting a sustainability impact assessment related to potential trade agreements with Gulf nations, a consultation that opened in June and runs until October 19. Additionally, the EU has launched separate free trade negotiations with the United Arab Emirates as part of its broader commercial engagement with the Gulf region.
Upcoming Gulf-EU summit emphasizes trade cooperation
The second summit between the Gulf Cooperation Council and the European Union is scheduled for October 24 in Saudi Arabia. This meeting follows ongoing discussions on trade, energy, investment, and regulatory collaboration. European institutions are exploring options for future trade agreements with Gulf countries, including regional arrangements and bilateral deals. Albudaiwi highlighted that the summit should foster a structured dialogue on issues impacting commerce, connectivity, and supply flows between the regions, while emphasizing practical economic cooperation.
The New York gathering followed the inaugural Rome Coalition meeting held in Rome on May 7, 2026. Italy and Croatia noted that the recent session focused on protecting food and fertiliser supply chains from pressures on major maritime routes. Participants also underscored the importance of transport resilience, storage capacity, and stable trade flows. The meeting brought together governments, regional organizations, and international institutions around shared concerns related to supply security. Throughout, food security, fertiliser availability, and dependable access to essential goods remained central to the agenda.