UAE warns supply disruptions could deepen global food insecurity

Abu Dhabi's Minister of State Khalifa Shaheen Almarar has emphasized the critical importance of safeguarding supply chains, international trade, and energy, stating these are fundamental elements of global peace and security. Almarar delivered these remarks during an Arria-formula meeting titled “Safe Seas, Shared Security: Protecting Freedom of Navigation in an Evolving Security Environment,” which took place on September 17 and was chaired by Bahrain’s Foreign Minister, Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani.

This meeting occurred just before the general debate of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Almarar highlighted recent developments that underscore how threats to supply chains, trade, and energy directly impact food security and the availability of essential fertilizers for agriculture. He pointed out that these disruptions also have far-reaching consequences for the global economy. Furthermore, he noted that the Global South bears the brunt of these issues, with the World Food Programme estimating that ongoing disruptions could push up to 45 million people into acute food insecurity.

Almarar stressed the necessity of securing and protecting the flow of supply chains, trade, and energy, in line with international law and the law of the sea, while also respecting the sovereignty of states. He warned that neglecting these protections could undermine the foundational rules and principles of international law, as well as the established norms between nations.

Concluding his remarks, Almarar reaffirmed the UAE's commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at easing tensions, reducing escalation, and fostering regional stability for the benefit of all peoples in the area.