New Delhi: Amid evolving geopolitical developments in the Gulf region, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday held a series of high-level virtual meetings with key Gulf partners — underlining the importance of supply chain resilience, stable trade flows, and deeper economic cooperation following the recent ceasefire.
In his interaction with Jasem Mohamed Al Budaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Goyal expressed optimism that the ceasefire in the region would hold and pave the way for long-term peace and stability.
He reiterated that dialogue remains the only viable path to resolving differences and highlighted the strong people-to-people ties between India and GCC nations, which continue to anchor robust economic relations.
The minister assured India’s full support in addressing any supply chain disruptions, particularly in essential food items, and appreciated measures taken by GCC countries to strengthen logistics networks and explore alternate trade routes.
Both sides stressed the need for coordinated efforts to maintain smooth and predictable trade flows amid regional uncertainties.
In a separate call with Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi of the United Arab Emirates, Goyal welcomed the ceasefire and underscored the critical role of uninterrupted trade in sustaining strong bilateral ties.
He conveyed India’s unequivocal support to the UAE while condemning recent attacks and thanked the Emirati leadership for assisting the Indian diaspora during the crisis.
Goyal lauded the UAE’s proactive logistics measures, including the use of multimodal transport and alternate routes, while highlighting India’s efforts to support exporters and maintain steady supplies of essential goods.
Goyal also held discussions with Abdulla Bin Adel Fakhro of Bahrain, where both sides emphasised the importance of restoring stability and ensuring predictable trade flows, particularly through maritime routes.
He expressed confidence in the region’s recovery from recent disruptions and reiterated India’s solidarity with Bahrain, condemning attacks on critical infrastructure and voicing support for maritime safety.
(IANS)
