Towards a New Discourse of Global Connectivity: The Gulf's New Horizons in Strategic Corridors and Partnerships

In an era of shifting geopolitical landscapes and evolving trade routes, economic corridors have emerged as critical drivers of connectivity, trade, and economic growth. The recent launch of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) at the G20 Summit in New Delhi underscores the growing importance of such initiatives. IMEC, along with other emerging corridors like the India, Israel, United Arab Emirates, and United States (I2U2) partnership, the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), and the Development Road Project, holds significant potential for transforming the region.

However, realizing this potential requires a nuanced understanding of the opportunities, challenges, and potential synergies between these corridors. Moreover, careful consideration must be given to whether these corridors will truly benefit the region by fostering collaboration and shared prosperity or exacerbate existing disparities and geopolitical tensions.

The Middle East Council on Global Affairs, in partnership with the Gulf International Forum, convened a two-day workshop to provide a comprehensive analysis of regional economic corridors, moving beyond the hype to explore their implications for sustainable and inclusive development, and what they mean and bring for the region.