Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi has warned that the economic effects of the region’s current crisis are no longer confined to nearby markets, but are spreading into Europe and the wider global economy. Speaking in New York on 24 September 2026, he said interruptions to maritime navigation and higher shipping expenses are feeding directly into the prices of commodities and food, while also straining international supply chains. His comments came during a ministerial meeting focused on fertiliser access and food security, held alongside the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Food Security Under Pressure
Albudaiwi addressed the Second Ministerial Meeting of the Rome Coalition, known as MED9, which examined food security challenges linked to instability around the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea and the Black Sea. He said these routes remain central to global trade, energy movement and agricultural supply flows.
GCC and EU Cooperation
The GCC chief said Gulf states and the European Union have the economic strength, logistics networks and investment capacity needed to reduce the impact of ongoing crises. He highlighted the importance of coordinated action to protect energy and food security and to keep essential supply chains operating.
He also stressed that GCC countries remain committed to dependable exports, within the limits imposed by security conditions, and said energy, food and fertilisers would not be treated as political pressure tools.
Strengthening Trade Routes
Albudaiwi pointed to continuing Gulf efforts to diversify transport corridors and improve regional and international connectivity. These include investment in pipelines, ports, rail links, roads and strategic storage facilities designed to make supply systems more resilient during emergencies.
Call for Broader Economic Agenda
He urged partners to reduce shipping and maritime insurance risks, while giving priority to cargoes carrying food, fertilisers and fuel. He also called for renewed momentum in GCC-EU trade talks, including progress toward a free trade agreement, wider electricity grid links, clean hydrogen cooperation and mutual investment. Albudaiwi said the next GCC-EU summit is expected to advance these priorities through structured dialogue.
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