Leaders from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and the European Union met in Brussels yesterday for the first ever GCC-EU Summit, heralding a new era in cooperation and partnership between the two blocs. Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani co-chaired the historic summit. The GCC has grown in stature in recent decades, in step with the bloc’s remarkable economic progress. The bloc has been playing an increasingly important role for stability and development in the region.
The summit comes in the backdrop of dangerous escalation and tensions in the region, with Israel’s relentless war on the Gaza Strip and deadly bombing campaign in Lebanon. The Gulf Arab states and the EU share their belief in adherence to principles such as respect for international law, the promotion of international peace and security, respect for state sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, and achieving prosperity for all.
Addressing the summit, the Amir said, “We call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, and for an end to the military-backed settlers provocations in the occupied West Bank.” He also reaffirmed to continue efforts for ceasefire, working along with Egypt and the US. He also welcomed recognition of the State of Palestine by a number of European nations and urged others to follow suit.
Apart from the pressing security and political issues, the summit also aimed to enhance energy cooperation between the two blocs, strengthening connectivity between the two regions, addressing climate change, and cooperation in areas of development and humanitarian aid.
A joint statement issued after the summit read: “Recognising the growing political EU-GCC ties and challenges to regional and international peace, security and stability, we commit to our EU-GCC Strategic Partnership and pledge to elevate it to the next level. We agree to build our Strategic Partnership, based on mutual respect and trust, for the benefit of the people of our regions and beyond. Through this special Partnership, we will work together to promote global and regional security and prosperity, including preventing the emergence and escalation of conflicts and resolving crises by enhancing our dialogue, coordination and engagement.”
As H H the Amir said, Middle Eastern issues hold significant importance for Europe, just as European matters are of special importance to GCC countries. The Brussels summit will usher in a new era in GCC-EU relations for the benefit of the people of the two regions and beyond. It is hoped that the summit will pave the way for some progress in efforts for ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, and delivery of humanitarian aid.
