GCC urges Gulf-EU action to protect global supply chains NEW YORK / RankWire.AI / – Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi called for stronger cooperation with Europe to protect global supply chains from maritime disruption and rising transport costs. Speaking in New York on September 24, Albudaiwi said higher freight expenses were feeding into commodity and food prices. He addressed the second ministerial meeting of the Rome Coalition for fertiliser access and food security, held during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.