At the India-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Troika Ministerial Meeting in New York on Friday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the historically close and friendly ties between India and GCC countries, underpinned by vibrant trade and strong people-to-people linkages, while noting that the relationship has deepened in recent years across trade, investment, energy, health, technology and cultural exchanges. The two sides reviewed progress in implementing the India-GCC Joint Action Plan 2024-28.
The India-GCC Troika Ministerial Meeting was held on the margins of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, with EAM S Jaishankar leading the Indian delegation. The GCC was represented by Bahrain Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, GCC Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi and Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel Al-Jubeir.
EAM S Jaishankar took to X and posted:
“Glad to co-chair the India-Gulf Cooperation Council Troika Ministerial Meeting in New York on the margins of #UNGA81. Reviewed the progress of the India-GCC Joint Action Plan 2024–28 and discussed ways to further advance our partnership. Welcomed the launch of India-GCC FTA negotiations. Look forward to strengthening ties in the areas of trade, investment, energy, food security, health, new technologies, culture and people-to-people exchanges. Thanked GCC leaderships for the support extended to the Indian community. Reiterated our strong commitment to freedom of navigation and safety of seafarers & commercial shipping.”
https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2103599339327074418?s=20
The meeting comes amid growing economic and strategic engagement between India and the GCC, with bilateral trade reaching USD 178.66 billion in FY 2025-26. The two sides also reviewed progress in implementing the India-GCC Joint Action Plan (JAP) 2024-2028, according to a press release from the Ministry of External Affairs.
India-GCC FTA negotiations seen as key to expanding trade, strengthening economic integration
The leaders welcomed the launch of negotiations for an India-GCC Free Trade Agreement (FTA) following the finalisation of the Terms of Reference in February 2026, and noted that the pact could unlock the full potential of trade between the two sides.
They said the agreement would help expand and diversify exports, strengthen economic integration and serve as a force multiplier for global good. The leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to building on the outcomes of the first India-GCC Joint Ministerial Meeting for Strategic Dialogue held in Riyadh on September 9, 2024.
The leaders reviewed the implementation of the Joint Action Plan, which envisages cooperation in areas including political dialogue, security, trade and investment, agriculture and food security, transportation, energy, health, culture and education.
India, GCC seek stronger energy partnership
Jaishankar thanked the GCC countries for ensuring supplies of energy and fertilisers to India despite disruptions to trade routes during the recent conflict in West Asia.
He also emphasised the need to further strengthen the India-GCC energy partnership by expanding cooperation in renewable energy, biofuels and green technologies.
People-to-people ties, diaspora welfare
The leaders underlined the importance of strengthening people-to-people linkages through joint initiatives in arts, heritage, yoga, music, cinema and literature.
Jaishankar appreciated the GCC countries for ensuring the welfare, safety and well-being of the Indian diaspora in the region, including during the recent West Asia conflict.
The leaders also exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual concern, including the situation in West Asia, challenges to commercial shipping through international waterways, reform of multilateral institutions, sustainability and terrorism.
EAM Jaishankar highlighted the importance of regional peace and security and the role of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving conflicts.
The leaders agreed to hold the second edition of the India-GCC Joint Ministerial Meeting for Strategic Dialogue at an early date.
