Photo: depositphotos.
Brussels, 16 October – The European Union will hold its first summit with the six Gulf states on Wednesday, marking a new stage in international relations. The initiative is part of the EU’s broader strategy to strengthen ties with distant allies amid global political tensions, including the isolation of Russia over its aggression in Ukraine. This was reported by Reuters.
Expanding the partnership
Following Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, the 27 EU member states have stepped up their diplomatic efforts, establishing new ties with international blocs. This summit aims to deepen strategic partnerships with countries that have significant influence in the region, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Strategic objectives
The summit agenda includes discussions on trade, investment, renewable energy and regional security. In particular, the EU hopes to cooperate with the Gulf states on issues related to the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. “The Persian Gulf is a key region at the crossroads between Asia, Europe and Africa, making it important for many of today’s crises,” the EU official said.
Challenges in cooperation
Although the EU wants its Gulf Cooperation Council partners to condemn Russian aggression, experts do not expect these states to fully accept Brussels’ position. At the same time, the EU is considering alternative ways to develop trade relations. Negotiations on a free trade agreement between the EU and the GCC have been suspended since 2008 due to disagreements over public tenders and oil products.
Visa issues
One of the key requests of the Gulf states is visa liberalisation. Currently, UAE nationals can travel to the EU without visas, while other GCC nationals require visas that are limited in duration.
The EU’s first summit with the Gulf states symbolises a strategic turn in international politics, opening up new opportunities for cooperation in the face of global challenges. In the context of the need for common security and partnership development, this event underlines the importance of interaction between regions and the search for common solutions for global stability.
