SCM Middle East Conclave: Former President Shri Ram Nath Kovind Calls IMEC Not Just a Trade Route, But a Bridge Between Civilizations
Dubai Hosts Visionary Summit Showcasing IMEC as a Global Benchmark for Integration, Innovation, and Shared Growth
The SCM Middle East Conclave & Awards 2025 concluded today in Dubai, solidifying its position as a vital platform for shaping the future of global logistics and trade. Hosted by leading Indian think tank Logistics Shakti, with the Hon’ble Former President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind as Chief Guest and H.E. Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy UAE as the Guest of Honour, the event convened over 400 industry leaders, including top CEOs, CXOs, investors, and policymakers from India, the UAE, and across the IME Corridor. Notably, shipments from India to mainland Europe via the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor are projected to arrive nearly 40% faster and at 30% lower cost compared to the traditional Suez Canal maritime route, underscoring the corridor’s transformative impact on global trade efficiency.
The two-day conclave featured keynote addresses from eminent dignitaries, who shared insights on the challenges and opportunities facing global supply chains, while underscoring the importance of collaboration and innovation in building resilient, sustainable trade ecosystems. In a poignant moment, led by Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi, Former Minister of State for External Affairs, Government of India, the distinguished gathering observed a profound silence to honor the victims of the recent terrorist attack in Kashmir—a gesture that resonated deeply, symbolizing a unified stand for peace and a collective resolve to rise above violence through solidarity and shared purpose.
Hon’ble Former President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind emphasized – “It is a privilege to be part of the SCM Middle East Conclave 2025 in Dubai, a city that truly embodies global dynamism. The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor is more than a trade route—it is a bridge between civilizations, a promise of mutual prosperity, and a step toward shared futures. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, partnerships like these not only foster economic growth but also unite us in purpose and progress. India, once seen as a developing nation, now stands tall as a global growth engine—leading in technology, diplomacy, and innovation. Let us shape our destinies together, driven by the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family.”
Highlighting the UAE’s commitment to leveraging technology to drive efficiency and sustainability in global trade, His Excellency Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy UAE stated- “The UAE stands at the nexus of a global economic transformation, where technology, innovation, and strategic partnerships are redefining the future of trade. Our record-breaking non-oil foreign trade of $815 billion in 2024 reflects not just economic resilience, but our commitment to tech-enabled, inclusive growth. Through the Trade Tech Accelerator, CEPA, and the transformative India-Middle East-Europe Corridor, we are building faster, greener, and more agile supply chains. Our vision is powered by AI, blockchain, and automation to enhance transparency, efficiency, and sustainability across trade routes. Together with India, we are shaping a smarter, more sustainable trade ecosystem that delivers long-term prosperity for our nations and the region.”
Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi, Former Minister of State for External Affairs, Government of India, shared in a passionate speech – “There are two forces shaping our world today, those working for peace and prosperity, and those driven by conflict and disruption. The IMEC corridor is a testament to the former. It isn’t a challenge to existing routes like the Suez Canal, but an essential alternative, like a fire escape that ensures continuity when conventional paths falter. From India to the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and beyond, this multimodal network integrates land, sea, and rail, offering faster, more cost-efficient, and secure connectivity. The corridor exemplifies strategic cooperation and resilience, highlighting that economic prosperity is inseparable from regional security. As India and UAE deepen collaboration, this initiative will serve as a global model of integration, driven not just by infrastructure – the hardware, but by streamlined processes and trust – the software, ensuring sustainable growth in an increasingly interconnected, yet fragile, world.”
Kamal Narayan Omer, co-founder and director of Logistics Shakti, shared, “The SCM MIDDLE EAST Conclave and Awards 2025 is more than just a platform, it is a movement towards a more connected, efficient, and resilient global supply chain.”
Key sessions during the conclave included “Pioneering Connectivity: Unlocking the Potential of the IME Corridor,” “Building Sustainable, Resilient and Profitable Supply Chains,” and “Bharat Mart: Unlocking Global Markets and Strengthening India-UAE Synergies.” These discussions provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the logistics industry and highlighted the potential of IMEC to transform global trade.
The SCM Awards, a highlight of the event, recognized organizations and individuals who demonstrated outstanding performance, innovation, and leadership in supply chain management. The awards celebrated groundbreaking achievements that set new industry benchmarks and inspired others to strive for excellence.
Amit Shankhdhar, co-founder and director of Logistic Shakti, added, “This event serves as a crucial platform for industry leaders to collaborate, innovate, and drive the future of global supply chains. With a strong focus on the IME Corridor, we aim to explore its potential in redefining trade routes and enhancing connectivity.”
The SCM Middle East Conclave & Awards 2025 successfully reinforced the region’s role as a key global trade hub, setting the stage for enhanced collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth in the logistics and supply chain sectors.
