GCC Secretary General Highlights Importance Of GCC-EU Summit For Strengthening Ties

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary General, Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, highlighted the importance of the first joint summit between the GCC and the European Union (EU). He stated that this meeting signifies both parties' commitment to enhancing political and economic relations. This collaboration is crucial for achieving shared goals and expanding their strategic partnership across various sectors.

During the summit in Brussels, co-chaired by Shaikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Charles Michel, Albudaiwi expressed gratitude to Michel for hosting this significant event. He noted that it reflects the strong partnership and ongoing cooperation between the GCC and EU, fostering growth, prosperity, and stability in both regions.

Albudaiwi emphasised that the 1988 cooperation agreement and the 2022-2027 Joint Action Programme highlight a distinguished relationship. This partnership includes political coordination, energy cooperation, and academic, health, and cultural collaboration. The strategic alliance aims to achieve higher levels of economic, political, and security integration while enhancing communication between peoples.

He also stressed that current global threats require continuous consultation and collective action. Such efforts are essential to maintain cooperation among nations in all fields, ensuring security, growth, and stability for both regions and beyond.

Albudaiwi addressed the situation in Gaza, where Israeli forces have caused significant suffering among Palestinian civilians. "While we express our deep sorrow and frustration over the atrocities inflicted upon our Palestinian brothers and sisters," he stated. He reaffirmed the GCC's stance on an immediate ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian aid access.

The failure to achieve a ceasefire has escalated tensions in Palestinian territories and extended conflict into Lebanon. Developments in the Red Sea have disrupted trade supply chains, leading to increased consumer prices. The GCC advocates for de-escalation through dialogue to prevent further instability.

Efforts Towards Peace

Reviving peace processes in the Middle East remains crucial for regional security. Albudaiwi reiterated support for establishing an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital based on 1967 borders. This approach is seen as vital for achieving long-term stability.

He acknowledged Saudi Arabia's role in coordinating international efforts towards resolving crises in Gaza. The "International Coalition for Implementing the Two-State Solution," initiated by Saudi Arabia with Arab, Islamic countries, and European partners' participation, aims at achieving a Palestinian state per UN resolutions.

Global Diplomatic Initiatives

In Ukraine, Albudaiwi stressed respecting international law principles like state sovereignty. The GCC has worked towards resolving conflicts between Russia and Ukraine through dialogue while facilitating prisoner exchanges. These efforts underscore their commitment to peaceful dispute resolution.

Albudaiwi praised Charles Michel's leadership in strengthening GCC-EU relations. He also commended Josep Borrell's contributions during his tenure as High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs. Their efforts have significantly enhanced cooperation between both regions.

The Secretary General expressed optimism about future collaborations between GCC and EU countries following this historic summit. He believes there is great potential for fulfilling aspirations of greater economic integration while building a more peaceful world together without using banned terms or phrases like "In conclusion."

With inputs from SPA