His Excellency Mr Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and His Excellency Mr Josep Borrell, High Representative of the European Union (EU) for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, discussed during a telephone call today, Saturday, August 10, 2024, the latest preparations for the GCC-European Summit of Their Majesties, Excellencies, and Highnesses the leaders of the GCC States and the EU member states, scheduled to be held in October in the city of Brussels.
The two sides stressed during the call that this summit is the culmination of the distinguished joint relations between the EU and the GCC, as well as the keenness to enhance them in a way that contributes to achieving the common interests of the GCC and EU states.
His Excellency also mentioned that the call also discussed the latest developments in the region, and the significant changes that have had an unprecedented negative impact on regional and global security and stability, foremost of which is the crisis in Gaza.
In this context, His Excellency the GCC Secretary General emphasised the need for European efforts and work to call on all concerned parties to de-escalate, implement an immediate ceasefire, and resolving the crisis in accordance with UN and international resolutions.
Moreover, His Excellency also said that the issues of common interest between the two sides were discussed to address common challenges, and to enhance dialogue and cooperation in various fields between the GCC and the EU.
The call concluded with the affirmation of both parties on the importance of supporting efforts to achieve and improve regional and international stability and security, chief among which are the efforts to stop the Israeli military operations in the Gaza Strip and its ongoing violations of human rights and international laws, in addition to stressing the continuation of communication and joint work between the GCC and the EU to raise the level of relations to serve the common interests of the two sides.