TRENDS Global and ORFME Reveal Outcomes of 2nd Economic Dialogue
Mohammad Ali (@ChaudhryMAli88) | August 24, 2026 | 11:30 AM
DUBAI (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 24th Aug, 2026) TRENDS Global, part of the TRENDS Group, and the Observer Research Foundation Middle East (ORFME) launched the research outcomes and policy recommendations of the Second TRENDS Global-ORFME Economic Dialogue, held at ORFME's office at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
The research outcomes, titled Balancing Connectivity and Economic Security: Post-Conflict Strategies for the Global South and MENA Region, shed light on a redefined understanding of risk in the geopolitical era. Risks have evolved from peripheral concerns to existential challenges, directly impacting supply chains, energy markets, and global trade. Economic security is no longer distinct from national and regional security.
The assessment criteria for global markets have shifted from efficiency and low cost to emphasizing added value, flexibility, resilience, and system reliability. Insurers and markets have emerged as key influencers in reshaping global trade routes.
The dialogue emphasized the interdependence of food and energy security, both vulnerable to conflicts and pandemics. It recommended developing a new model of strategic connectivity in the Middle East, encompassing integrated multimodal trade corridors, robust ports and logistics infrastructure, protection of critical economic assets, and enhanced capacity to reroute trade when traditional routes are compromised.
Strengthening energy and food security was suggested as an integrated strategy, involving diversifying energy routes, building strategic reserves, bolstering strategic food stocks, diversifying supply sources, and investing across all stages of the food value chain.
The event highlighted the necessity of establishing alternative land, air, and sea routes, expanding beyond oil to include non-oil industrial exports and food imports. It advocated recalibrating economic diversification plans to prioritize supply chain security, support domestic manufacturing, and invest in human capital, skills, and technology.
Dr. Samir Saran, President of ORFME, stated that collaboration among think tanks enhances their capability to grasp intricate issues and deliver insightful, forward-looking analysis through interactive sessions and open dialogue among experts and researchers.