GCC Moves to Activate Green Lanes to Secure Trade Flow

TDT | Manama

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The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi, stated that transport and communications ministers from GCC member states convened in an extraordinary virtual meeting on Thursday, March 26, 2026, to assess the current regional situation and its impact on supply chains.

The meeting, chaired by Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications and current session president, focused on evaluating the preparedness of land border crossings and addressing operational challenges.

Ministers discussed activating the “green lanes” protocol to facilitate the smooth movement of goods, while also exploring the use of alternative ports and secure transportation routes. The session emphasized enhancing joint coordination mechanisms to enable real-time monitoring and swift response to any potential bottlenecks.

Al-Budaiwi highlighted the critical role of the transport sector as a cornerstone of economic security in GCC countries. He stressed that it ensures the uninterrupted flow of essential commodities such as food, medicine, and fuel across land, air, and sea routes, maintaining market stability even during challenging times.

He noted that the region is currently facing escalating challenges due to ongoing military tensions involving Iran, describing the situation as a significant test of the GCC’s ability to safeguard its economic achievements and ensure the continuity of vital sectors.

The Secretary-General added that more than 35 coordination meetings have been held since the onset of the crisis, reflecting a high level of institutional readiness and shared awareness among member states. However, he emphasized that the current phase requires intensified field coordination, faster implementation of measures, and proactive steps to maintain the seamless flow of transport and trade.

He concluded that ensuring the smooth movement of land, maritime, and air transport is no longer optional but a strategic necessity to protect supply chains and economic stability across the GCC.