satyendra Pathak
Doha
Bringing together key representatives from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the European Union (EU) to address pressing economic challenges, policy priorities, and the impact of regional and international risks, the 13th EU-GCC Economic Dialogue commenced in Doha on Monday.
Representatives from both sides gathered to discuss pivotal economic challenges, policy priorities, and the impact of regional and international risks, particularly focusing on issues related to security and stability.
The dialogue aimed to bolster collaboration in addressing common economic challenges and to foster mutual understanding for achieving sustainable economic growth. Key topics included economic diversification, trade and investment opportunities, and the path towards a green and sustainable future.
The meeting was chaired by Assistant Undersecretary for Economic Affairs at Qatar’s Ministry of Finance Saud bin Abdullah Al Attiyah along with GCC Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs and Negotiations Abdulaziz Aluwaisheg. On the EU side, the dialogue was led by Annika Eriksgard, director of International Economic and Financial Relations and Global Governance (ECFIN).
The dialogue was attended by several experts and specialists from the GCC General Secretariat, European Commission, and the European External Action Service. This gathering served as a platform for sharing insights and experiences on both sides, laying the foundation for stronger economic cooperation between the two regions.
In his opening remarks, Al Attiyah praised the dialogue as an essential step towards deepening the partnership between the EU and GCC. He highlighted that the discussions reflected a shared commitment to addressing the evolving global economic landscape.
"The 13th EU-GCC Economic Dialogue is a testament to our joint efforts to confront pressing global challenges while working towards shared prosperity and growth,” Al Attiyah said. He further stressed the importance of focusing on economic diversification, sustainability, and green transformation to ensure the long-term stability and development of both the EU and GCCeconomies.
Al Attiyah also underscored Qatar’s role in addressing global crises, particularly emphasising the nation’s efforts to mediate and provide humanitarian assistance in conflict zones. Notably, Qatar has committed significant resources to aid in the recovery of Ukraine, including pledging $100 million for infrastructure rehabilitation and educational and health services. Additionally, Qatar has played a critical role in reuniting Ukrainian children with their families, showcasing its dedication tohumanitarian causes.
Highlighting Qatar’s broader diplomatic efforts, Al Attiyah reiterated the country’s firm position on key geopolitical issues, particularly the Palestinian cause. He noted that Qatar continues to advocate for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Gaza, focusing on facilitating ceasefire agreements, protecting civilians, and enabling the flow of humanitarian aid to the region.
"The Palestinian cause remains central not only to the Middle East but also to the international community,” Al Attiyah said. He emphasised Qatar’s commitment to achieving a just solution in line with international resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative, while also working to mitigate the conflict’s economic impact on the region.
Abdulaziz Aluwaisheg spoke on the historical significance of the EU-GCC dialogues, which began in 2003. He pointed out that these discussions have been instrumental in shaping regional policy and addressing both economic and geopolitical challenges.
Aluwaisheg highlighted the importance of energy security, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its ripple effects on the global energy market. "Qatar, as a leading player in energy security, has a crucial role in ensuring the stability of energy supplies, especially during these uncertain times,” he said.
The dialogue also touched upon the economic ramifications of the war in Gaza, with participants expressing concerns over its impact on international trade routes, particularly in the Red Sea, and the wider geopolitical stability of the Middle East. Qatar’s efforts to mediate the conflict and minimize its economic fallout were widely praised.
Ambassador of the EU to Qatar Dr Cristian Tudor lauded Qatar for hosting the 13th EU-GCC Economic Dialogue. He emphasised that the dialogue serves as a critical platform for enhancing the strategic relationship between the EU and GCC states. According to Dr Tudor, the forthcoming summit between Qatar and the EU in October 2024 will open a new chapter in their bilateral relations.
"This summit will be an important step in strengthening our ties and addressing shared challenges, from trade and investment to climate change and security,” Dr Tudor said. He expressed optimism that the enhanced cooperation would create new opportunities for economic growth and development in both regions.
Annika Eriksgard, representing the EU, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of collaboration in addressing global challenges such as the fragmentation of international trade and the economic instability caused by ongoing conflicts. She stressed the need for coordinated efforts between the EU and GCC to find solutions that benefit both regions and promote sustainable development.
"The challenges we face today, from the war in Gaza to the energy crisis triggered by the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, require concerted action,” Eriksgard said. "The EU and GCC are well-positioned to lead efforts in creating resilient, diversified economies that can withstand these globaldisruptions.”