GCC Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi Highlights New Phase In Gulf-European Parliamentary Relations

The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jasem Albudaiwi, highlighted a significant development in parliamentary relations between GCC member states and the European Parliament. This was marked by a meeting involving the Speakers of the Shura, Representatives, National, and Umma Councils with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola. Albudaiwi stressed the need for a permanent mechanism to ensure ongoing engagement between Gulf parliaments and the European Parliament.

Albudaiwi expressed gratitude to UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for supporting joint Gulf initiatives and hosting the meeting. He also thanked Saqr Ghobash, Speaker of the Federal National Council of the UAE, for his hospitality. The meeting's timing is crucial as Gulf-European relations are growing significantly, with alignment on various regional and international issues.

The GCC Secretariat General is prepared to collaborate in establishing this mechanism. The meeting took place in Abu Dhabi under the chairmanship of Saqr Ghobash. Albudaiwi noted that recent high-level visits and dialogues reflect a shared commitment to elevate relations to a strategic partnership level, as affirmed during the Brussels summit in October 2024.

Albudaiwi outlined preparations for future Gulf-European events, including an upcoming Ministerial Council meeting in Kuwait in October and the first Gulf-European Energy Conference in Brussels in November. Additionally, Saudi Arabia will host the second GCC-EU Summit in 2026. These events aim to create positive momentum for Gulf-European relations amid global challenges threatening security and stability.

The Secretary-General emphasized that strengthening these ties would convey hope and exemplify international relations based on cooperation. He acknowledged the European Parliament's vital role within the EU's decision-making framework alongside other key institutions like the European Council and Commission.

Visa Exemption Priority

A top priority for GCC member states is obtaining Schengen visa exemption. Albudaiwi confirmed that all technical requirements have been met, with exemption files ready for EU consideration. He praised President Metsola's efforts to finalize this exemption, which would enhance tourism, trade, cultural exchanges, and academic collaboration.

Addressing regional issues, Albudaiwi reiterated GCC states' steadfast support for Palestinians amidst ongoing aggression. He stressed ensuring their legitimate rights per international resolutions, advocating for an independent Palestinian state based on the Arab Peace Initiative and two-state solution.

In his concluding remarks, Albudaiwi proposed an annual meeting between GCC parliamentary council speakers and the European Parliament President. This initiative aims to further strengthen Gulf-European relations and deepen inter-parliamentary cooperation.

With inputs from SPA