Global Challenges at the Forefront: EU and GCC Leaders Meet in Brussels
TDT | Manama
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The inaugural summit between the European Union (EU) and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) took place in Brussels, marking a significant step toward strategic partnership and cooperation in the 21st century. Attended by high-ranking officials, including Charles Michel, President of the European Council, the summit aimed to address regional challenges and foster stability, prosperity, and unity among member states.
In his opening remarks, Michel emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “This will help to face regional challenges. This summit sends a powerful message that the EU and GCC are ready for a strategic partnership in the 21st century.” He highlighted the urgency of developing a roadmap for future cooperation, particularly given the ongoing crises in the region.
Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, underscored the GCC's commitment to investing in trade and combating climate change. He noted that trade volume between the EU and GCC has reached a substantial $204 billion. “We all know how security and political challenges are rising in the Middle East. It’s very important to stand with the EU at this moment,” he stated. Sheikh Tamim also raised concerns about the situations in Palestine and Lebanon, urging for the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, as well as calling for Israeli withdrawal from the West Bank.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, addressed two critical points during the summit. Firstly, she stressed that “we cannot implement economic investment without security in the region,” highlighting the need for civilian protection and diplomacy to achieve sustainable pathways. Secondly, she pointed out that achieving sustainable goals is impossible without regional stability, stating, “We both need advanced resources for a sustainable future.”
H.E. Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, Secretary General of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, reported that direct investments had exceeded $100 billion. He reaffirmed the GCC’s call for an immediate and complete ceasefire in Gaza, noting the expansion of violence to Lebanon and threats to maritime security. The Secretary-General commended the diplomatic efforts of Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
Representing Bahrain at the summit, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa attended alongside H.E. Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Alzayani. They led discussions aimed at strengthening Bahrain's ties with Belgium and the EU.
The summit's agenda included key topics such as enhancing cooperation on global challenges, economic collaboration, energy sustainability, and people-to-people contact. The programme outlined specific joint activities to deepen cooperation in areas like trade, climate change, green transition, and counter-terrorism.
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