India, Saudi Arabia Assess West Asia Ceasefire Impact on Supply Chains

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal held a virtual meeting with Saudi Arabia's Commerce Minister Dr. Majid bin Abdullah Al Qassabi to discuss the regional situation following a ceasefire announcement. Both ministers stressed the need for coordinated efforts to ease strain on supply chains and ensure smooth trade flows. Goyal also held separate calls with officials from the UAE, GCC, and Bahrain, underscoring the importance of stable trade and economic cooperation. The discussions reaffirmed a shared commitment to deepening economic partnerships and advancing India-GCC Free Trade Agreement negotiations.

Key Points: India-Saudi Arabia Talks on West Asia Ceasefire & Supply Chains

  • Virtual talks on West Asia ceasefire
  • Focus on supply chain resilience
  • Commitment to India-GCC FTA progress
  • Condemnation of attacks, support for diaspora
  • Emphasis on stable maritime trade flows
2 min read

India, Saudi Arabia take stock of West Asia situation, to ensure supply chain continuity

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal holds talks with Saudi, UAE, GCC, and Bahrain counterparts to ensure trade continuity post-ceasefire.

"expressed optimism that the recently announced ceasefire would pave the way to lasting peace and security in the region - Ministry Statement"

New Delhi, April 11

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal had a virtual call with Dr Majid bin Abdullah Al Qassabi, Minister of Commerce of Saudi Arabia, and expressed optimism that the recently announced ceasefire would pave the way to lasting peace and security in the region, a ministry statement said on Saturday.

He hailed indomitable spirit of Saudi people who have been steadfast in their resolve to maintain supply chain resilience amidst increased disruptions and volatility.

Goyal also condemned attacks in the country during the ongoing conflict and appreciated Saudi Arabia's efforts to protect Indian community.

According to an official statement, both sides noted the strain conflict has put on regional supply chains and stressed the need for an early recovery through coordinated efforts to ensure smooth trade flows.

Goyal highlighted India's steps to support exports to KSA and the Gulf region. The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral trade and expressed optimism for early progress in the India-GCC FTA negotiations.

The statement further stated that the virtual meeting underscored the shared commitment to further deepening the India-Saudi Arabia economic partnership.

Earlier, 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.

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 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.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Good to see our government actively engaging with Gulf nations. The safety of our diaspora is paramount. Hope the ceasefire holds and peace returns so our people can work without fear. The focus on an India-GCC FTA is also a smart long-term move.
R
Rohit P
While the diplomatic talks are good, I hope this translates to real action. We've seen supply chain issues affect prices of essentials before. Need concrete plans, not just statements. The government must ensure fuel and food prices remain stable for the common man.
S
Sarah B
As someone working in logistics, this is critical news. The Red Sea disruptions have been a nightmare. Coordinated efforts with Saudi and UAE can really help stabilize shipping routes and costs. Kudos to the ministers for the proactive approach.
V
Vikram M
Strong ties with the Gulf are a cornerstone of our foreign policy. Millions of Indians send remittances from there. Protecting them and ensuring trade flows is a national priority. Hope the FTA negotiations conclude soon—it will be a game-changer for our exports.
K
Kavya N
My brother works in Dubai. The recent tensions had us all worried. Thankful to the UAE and Saudi leadership for looking after our people, and to our government for staying engaged. Peace in the region benefits everyone. 🙏

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