Dubai: Transport ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) held an extraordinary meeting today to review recent developments and their impact on supply chains, assess the readiness of land border crossings, and explore ways to address operational challenges.
According to Emirates News Agency, Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, Secretary-General of the GCC, stated that the meeting discussed a number of proposed measures, most notably activating the Green Lanes Protocol, utilizing alternative ports, and ensuring safe transport routes. The meeting, conducted via videoconference, highlighted the transport and communications sector as the vital artery ensuring the continuous flow of strategic goods, including food, medicine, and fuel, across land, air, and sea entry points. These efforts aim to maintain market stability and uninterrupted supply chains, even amidst significant challenges.
AlBudaiwi emphasized the escalating challenges due to Iranian military activities targeting GCC countries, describing these developments as a real test of the Gulf states' ability to safeguard their gains and ensure the continuity of vital sectors efficiently. He noted that since the onset of the crisis, over 35 intensive coordination meetings have been held, reflecting a high level of institutional readiness and a shared awareness of the current phase. This situation necessitates accelerated field coordination and the immediate implementation of measures to strengthen the collective response.
He further noted that maintaining the smooth flow of transport across all modes is a strategic necessity, requiring additional proactive steps to enhance the readiness of ports and minimize any potential impact on trade movement and supply chains. AlBudaiwi affirmed that GCC countries are capable of overcoming challenges efficiently, supported by their strong ties and effective integration. These elements have been reflected in unified positions that have contributed to strengthening stability and ensuring the continuity of vital sectors.