Debugging Session: SuiteCRM-Cloud SQL Connection -- 2

I am looking for a Google Cloud Platform (GCP) expert to assist me with a connectivity issue between my web server and database.

Current Setup:
Platform: Google Cloud Platform.
Web Server: Google Compute Engine VM running Ubuntu/Apache (SuiteCRM installed).
Database: Google Cloud SQL (MySQL) - configured with Private IP.
Application: SuiteCRM 8.0

The Problem: I have partially set up the environment, but the SuiteCRM application is unable to connect to the Cloud SQL database. I suspect the issue lies within the VPC networking, Firewall rules, or Database user permissions. Specifically, when I try to connect the DB with the following command:

Command: mysql -h [IP ADDRESS] -u [USERNAME] -p
I get the response: ERROR 2002 (HY000): Can't connect to server on '[IP ADDRESS]' (115)

Awarded consultant will join me on an AnyDesk session to:
1. review the problem and correct the issue so that I can log into MySQL
2. review remaining configuration to assure that I can access SuiteCRM dev and production instances (already installed)

Time Commitment: I expect this to be a quick review and fix, likely taking less than 1 hour.

Requirements:
Strong experience with Google Cloud Networking (VPC, Firewalls, Private Service Access).
Experience with Cloud SQL (MySQL).
Familiarity with LAMP stack configurations is a plus.
Fluent English for live communication.

Timeframe: ASAP..please let me know your availability. I would like to conduct the review session immediately on award of the project.