Bahraini Official: Regional Linkage of Transport Networks Enhances Economic Security and Supply Chain Resilience

Manama -- Bahrain’s Minister of Transport and Communications, Dr. Sheikh Abdullah bin Ahmed, affirmed on Sunday that regional connectivity constitutes a fundamental element in bolstering economic security and supply chain resilience. He highlighted the importance of integrating road, maritime, and air transport networks, as well as ports and airports, alongside developing land and rail links among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and improving data and information exchange mechanisms related to supply movements.

This statement was made during his participation in the main panel discussion titled “Securing Supply Chains: From Food to Energy,” held as part of the Gulf Gateway Forum 2026. He explained that enhancing regional integration contributes to increasing the region’s capacity to maintain the smooth flow of trade.

He emphasized that supply chain security has become a more comprehensive concept, built on establishing flexible, diversified systems capable of responding swiftly to changes through diversified sourcing, multiple transport routes, enhanced infrastructure reliability, and an expanded partner network, all aimed at ensuring the continuous flow of goods and services under various conditions.

He pointed to the growing role of technology, communications, and digitalization in developing transport and logistics systems, noting that real-time data, artificial intelligence, and advanced analytics have become essential tools for monitoring cargo movements.

He noted that Bahrain’s strategic location at the heart of the Gulf, combined with the integration of its ports, aviation, transport, and communications sectors, provides a solid foundation for supporting trade flows and enhancing the efficiency and resilience of regional supply chains.

The session discussed the transformations in global trade routes and supply chains in recent years and their implications for food and energy security, as well as ways to strengthen supply chain resilience through diversifying supply sources, investing in local production and clean energy, and enhancing cooperation between the public and private sectors.

The session also addressed the importance of international partnerships, GCC integration, and investment in infrastructure, logistics, and digital technologies, all of which contribute to building more efficient, sustainable, and adaptable supply systems capable of addressing future challenges. (End) K.N.A./A.B.G.