Brussels, March 19, 2025 — Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi and European Council President António Costa held a productive meeting in Belgium on March 18, 2025, where they discussed a wide range of joint initiatives and projects aimed at further strengthening the cooperation between the GCC and the European Union (EU). The discussions focused on enhancing this vital relationship to foster mutual prosperity and to advance the shared interests of both regions. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the ninth Brussels Conference on Syria, underscoring the broader geopolitical context in which their collaboration is unfolding.
One of the central topics of the meeting was the continued development of GCC-EU relations, framed within the context of their strategic partnership. The two officials took the opportunity to review the outcomes of the first GCC-EU Summit, held in October 2024 in Brussels, which set the foundation for deepening ties across various sectors, including economic, political, and security cooperation. They discussed concrete steps to build on this momentum and further advance their mutual goals, acknowledging the progress made while identifying areas for continued growth.
Albudaiwi and Costa also delved into key regional and international developments, placing significant emphasis on the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Both leaders stressed the urgency of finding a resolution to the Gaza conflict in line with international law and UN resolutions, highlighting the importance of a just and lasting peace for the region. Albudaiwi expressed deep appreciation for the European Council’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, particularly in condemning Israeli violations against Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied territories. The two officials reiterated their shared commitment to advocating for the protection of human rights and ensuring that international laws are respected in the conflict.
In addition to addressing the Gaza crisis, the meeting also included discussions on the broader issue of stability in the Middle East. Both sides praised the EU’s role in supporting efforts to maintain stability in Syria and reaffirmed their commitment to regional and international initiatives aimed at enhancing security, stability, and prosperity. The leaders expressed mutual dedication to working together to address common challenges, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in building a more peaceful and secure future for the region and the wider international community.
The constructive dialogue between Albudaiwi and Costa reflected a strong desire to continue strengthening the GCC-EU partnership and to contribute to regional and global efforts aimed at fostering peace, stability, and sustainable development.