Bahrain calls for stronger GCC integration to ensure uninterrupted movement of goods

TDT | Manama

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His Excellency Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, emphasised the critical need to consolidate Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) integration across vital sectors, particularly transport and logistics.

He said that this coordination is essential to ensure the continuity of supply chains and the smooth movement of shipments, especially strategic goods.

“The security and prosperity of GCC countries are indivisible, and their destinies are shared,” H.E. Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed said during the extraordinary GCC Ministers of Transport and Communications meeting held via videoconference. “Strengthening coordination in transport and logistics is essential to maintain uninterrupted flow of essential goods across our states.”

Emergency

He also stressed the importance of preparedness for emergency conditions, noting: “We must enhance readiness to safeguard the stability of our countries, protect the interests of our peoples, and support the progress of joint GCC action.”

The meeting, convened under Bahrain’s presidency of the 46th session of the GCC, brought together ministers and officials responsible for transport, ports, and logistics sectors across member states.

Discussions focused on the current operational conditions in land and maritime transport, the movement of freight and strategic goods, and the status of border crossings to ensure uninterrupted transit.

Measures

Participants reviewed measures to activate joint mechanisms, including simplifying procedures at ports and border points, utilising alternative transport routes, and strengthening logistical connectivity between ports and land crossings.

The use of modern technologies to expedite clearance and inspection procedures was also highlighted as a priority to ensure high levels of responsiveness to regional developments.

Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the GCC, praised Bahrain’s convening of the meeting at this critical time.

Projects

He underscored the importance of accelerating joint projects, exchanging expertise, and coordinating policies to enhance infrastructure, logistics services, and economic development across member states.

The ministers reaffirmed the need for continued consultation and cooperation to ensure the sustainability and efficiency of transport and logistics systems, reinforcing GCC integration and maintaining the smooth flow of trade and supply chains amid ongoing regional challenges.