Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi has called for a new phase in relations between the GCC and the European Union, saying closer cooperation is needed to address growing regional and global challenges.
Speaking at the Third GCC-EU Regional Security Dialogue in Brussels, Al-Budaiwi said the region is facing an unprecedented period of instability and urged both sides to strengthen political, security and economic coordination.
He said GCC countries remain committed to dialogue but accused Iran of continuing policies that fuel regional tensions. He stressed that the long-standing GCC-EU strategic partnership, established in 1988, should evolve to better respond to current security and economic developments.
Al-Budaiwi warned that recent attacks on Gulf energy facilities and disruptions affecting the Strait of Hormuz have had consequences far beyond the region, impacting global energy supplies and economic stability. He noted that these developments have also created fresh energy challenges for Europe.
He outlined several priorities for expanding cooperation, including stronger diplomatic coordination, enhanced regional security, deeper energy partnerships, improved trade routes and greater people-to-people ties through progress toward visa-free travel.
At the same forum, Kuwait’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Ambassador Hamad Al-Mashaan, reaffirmed his country’s support for closer GCC-EU relations. He said recent attacks targeting Kuwait and other Gulf states require a firm international response and welcomed the European Union’s solidarity with the region.
During separate talks, Al-Budaiwi and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas discussed ways to strengthen cooperation and emphasized the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz while supporting regional stability.
Meanwhile, Egypt announced progress on new Arab trade corridors designed to strengthen links between Gulf countries and Europe. Transport Minister Kamel Al-Wazir said the planned northern and southern routes, supported by expanded logistics infrastructure, aim to improve trade efficiency, reduce transport costs and strengthen regional supply chains.
