New York:GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi has emphasized the need for deeper regional integration in energy, trade, transport, and the digital economy to bolster economic growth, enhance resilience, and foster new investment opportunities across the Gulf region.
According to Qatar News Agency, Albudaiwi delivered his remarks at a regional connectivity forum held alongside the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. He highlighted that stronger economic ties among Gulf nations could lead to shared prosperity for current and future generations.
The forum was organized by the GCC General Secretariat in collaboration with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). Albudaiwi underscored the impact of rapid changes in global trade routes, energy systems, and technology on economic relationships. He noted that investment is increasingly targeting markets that offer opportunity, resilience, and stability.
Albudaiwi pointed out that while the Gulf's strategic location at the crossroads of global trade, energy, and investment flows is advantageous, it needs to be complemented by greater integration of markets, infrastructure, and capabilities to realize practical economic benefits.
He cited the Gulf Electricity Interconnection project as a successful example of regional cooperation, demonstrating how integration can enhance resilience and yield economic and strategic advantages.
Furthermore, Albudaiwi proposed three areas for future efforts creating a roadmap based on national priorities post-UN General Assembly, identifying investment opportunities and key corridors in energy, trade, transport, and digital connectivity, and expanding collaboration among governments, financial institutions, sovereign investors, and the private sector.
He also emphasized the potential role of the UNDP in facilitating partnerships and supporting technical initiatives. These discussions take place as Gulf states focus on economic diversification, infrastructure development, and digital connectivity, aiming to strengthen their economic ties with global markets.