The first-ever Gulf-European Summit was concluded in Brussels on October 16 with disseminating a powerful message of unity. Leaders from both sides left the Belgium capital with a renewed commitment to deepening their collaboration in politics, security, and economics. Since the signing of the Cooperation Agreement of 1988, there has been an evolution of much enhanced Gulf-European relations and the summit has solidified the Strategic Partnership that was forged in 2022, reflecting their shared dedication to tackling pressing regional and global challenges.
The Gulf and European leaders discussed a range of urgent issues, including the escalating turmoil in Gaza, Lebanon, and the Red Sea, along with fears of further conflict. Their talks underscored the importance of working hand in hand to boost diplomatic efforts to stabilize both regions and safeguard global security.
A major highlight of the summit was the reaffirmation of the International Coalition’s support for peace, specifically the two-state solution, a key initiative led by Saudi Arabia with strong backing from Arab and European partners. The Gulf leaders emphasized the immediate need to protect civilians and ensure humanitarian access in conflict zones, especially Gaza while the European Union officials echoed these sentiments. Both sides are united in pushing for a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper, Christophe Farnaud, European Union Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Oman, underscored the historic significance of the summit. He praised the unified stance of both the Gulf and European sides in advancing the establishment of a Palestinian state; a goal that both regions are determined to achieve through this partnership.
Security, as expected, took center stage in the summit. Conversations ranged from counterterrorism to maritime security and illegal migration. Earlier in 2024, the High-Level Forum on Regional Security laid the foundations, and the summit built upon this by reinforcing collaboration on nuclear proliferation, cybersecurity, and maritime safety.
Economically, the summit couldn’t have come at a better time. Global oil markets are fluctuating, and both regions agreed to focus on diversifying their economies, with particular attention to renewable energy and tech investments. The leaders recognized that innovation and sustainability are the future and committed to long-term partnerships that will ensure these sectors flourish. This dialogue also built on the September 2024 Economic Dialogue in Doha, where critical geopolitical issues, such as the Ukraine conflict and Gaza, were discussed.
By the end of the summit, both sides had established a solid action plan, with their agreement to implement a follow-up mechanism to ensure progress on security and economic diversification and remain vigilant regarding their goals. Together, Gulf and European countries make up nearly 20 percent of the global economy, and this partnership promises to shape the future of global economic trends.
This summit was more than just a meeting—it was a stepping stone toward a new era of Gulf-European relations. With a clear plan in hand, leaders from both regions are poised to work together toward political stability, economic growth, and security cooperation.
Dr. Ibrahim Al-Othaimin is a Middle East Affairs specialist and security analyst based in Riyadh. He can be contacted at:
Ibarhim.othaimin@gmail.com or twitter @Alothaimin