New York:Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, emphasized the importance of strengthening the strategic partnership between GCC member states and European countries to enhance regional and international security and stability. This collaboration aims to safeguard shared interests and address regional challenges.
According to Qatar News Agency, Albudaiwi's remarks were made during a panel session at the Europe-Gulf Forum. The event, organized by Antenna Group in collaboration with the Atlantic Council, was attended by ministers and senior officials from GCC states and the European Union (EU) and took place on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
During the session, Albudaiwi expressed appreciation for the supportive positions of European nations, noting the necessity for continued coordination and cooperation. He identified key priorities such as securing GCC states, ensuring the safety of their populations, protecting critical infrastructure, and reinforcing maritime security to guarantee the uninterrupted flow of energy, global commerce, and supply chains.
Albudaiwi highlighted the shared focus of the GCC and European countries on maritime corridor security due to its impact on international energy security and the global economy's stability.
He also mentioned the upcoming GCC-EU Summit in October 2026 in Saudi Arabia, which is anticipated to significantly advance bilateral relations. Albudaiwi expressed optimism that the summit would yield strategic recommendations and tangible outcomes that strengthen ties between the regions.
In conclusion, Albudaiwi reaffirmed the enduring strategic interests binding the GCC and Europe, calling for increased joint action and impactful projects that reflect a genuine partnership, meeting the aspirations of GCC and European peoples.