First Gulf-EU summit in Brussels affirms strategic partnership and calls for conflict de-escalation in Ukraine and Middle East

BRUSSELS — In a historic joint summit held in Brussels, leaders from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the European Union came together for the first time to discuss critical political and economic issues, with a particular focus on the ongoing situation in the Middle East and Ukraine. The summit concluded with a joint statement affirming a strong commitment to a strategic partnership based on mutual respect and trust.

The statement underscored the importance of cooperation to promote global security and prosperity, emphasizing the need to avoid conflict escalation and resolve differences through dialogue and joint coordination.

Both parties agreed to continue the dialogue, with Saudi Arabia set to host the second Gulf-European Summit in 2026. Additionally, a ministerial-level summit will be held in Kuwait next year to further strengthen ties.

The statement also addressed the situation in Gaza, calling for the release of Israeli hostages kidnapped by Hamas on 7 October and urging a de-escalation of violence. It stressed the importance of a ceasefire and the safe return of all civilians to the Gaza Strip, while reaffirming the need for a Palestinian state in line with international law, and calling for the protection of civilians in the conflict.

On the issue of the war in Ukraine, the summit’s participants pledged to uphold the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations, reaffirming their commitment to the United Nations Charter and international law.