Brussels, March 18, 2025 – In a significant diplomatic exchange, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi met with European Union (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and European Commission Vice President Kaja Kallas today, on the sidelines of the ninth Brussels Conference on Syria. The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation between the GCC and the EU, with a particular emphasis on reviewing the outcomes of the historic first GCC-EU Summit, which was held in Brussels in October 2024. The summit, under the theme "Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity," brought together the leaders of the GCC member states and the heads of state and government of EU member countries.
During the meeting, both Albudaiwi and Kallas discussed key regional and international developments, underscoring their shared commitment to fostering peace, stability, and prosperity. Albudaiwi expressed his appreciation for the EU’s ongoing efforts to support the stability, security, and prosperity of Syria and its people, acknowledging the importance of these efforts in the broader context of the region’s political and humanitarian challenges. He praised the EU’s role in providing humanitarian aid, engaging in diplomatic efforts, and promoting stability in a war-torn region.
Albudaiwi also highlighted the positive outcomes of the first GCC-EU Summit, noting that the event marked a significant milestone in the strengthening of historical relations between the two blocs. He emphasized that the summit’s outcomes reflect the shared goals, interests, and aspirations of both the GCC and the EU. By further cementing their partnership, the two sides are positioning themselves to better address global challenges, work on joint initiatives, and enhance cooperation on issues such as security, trade, and regional stability.
The strengthening of GCC-EU relations is of particular importance as both blocs continue to work toward common objectives, including the promotion of peace, economic development, and human rights. The dialogue between Albudaiwi and Kallas also underscored the importance of ongoing collaboration in addressing complex global issues, with a focus on ensuring that the interests of both regions are aligned and advanced.
As the GCC and the EU continue to build on the outcomes of their inaugural summit, both sides remain committed to deepening their strategic partnership, enhancing diplomatic ties, and pursuing shared initiatives that contribute to global peace and prosperity. The meeting between Albudaiwi and Kallas serves as a testament to the evolving nature of GCC-EU relations, one that promises to benefit not only the member states of both blocs but also the broader international community.