GCC and European Parliament seek stronger security and trade partnership

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the European Parliament have called for a strengthened strategic partnership to address security, energy, and trade challenges. Following a meeting in Brussels, both sides emphasized the need for expanded cooperation in investment, sustainable development, and the protection of maritime, land, air, and digital transport routes.

The participants highlighted that disruptions in the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, alongside regional security threats, underscore the interdependence of European and Gulf prosperity. They stressed that ensuring secure and diversified energy supplies is essential for economic stability and industrial resilience.

Meanwhile, the second EU-GCC Summit, originally scheduled for October 2026 in Riyadh, has been postponed. The delay follows security concerns, including a missile strike on King Khalid International Airport. While the postponement pauses direct high-level talks between European Council President António Costa and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, ministerial working groups will continue to operate through digital channels to maintain momentum on trade and technology frameworks.