QNA
Brussels
Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo expressed optimism about the potential for significant agreements to emerge from the First European Union (EU) -Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit, particularly in relation to the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, including the Israeli war on Gaza and Lebanon. Speaking before the summit, De Croo highlighted the importance of this meeting at such a critical time for the region, emphasising the high level of representation among the delegations and the urgency of addressing the escalating violence.
De Croo underscored the shared interests between the EU and the Gulf states, hoping for progress towards a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and an end to the violence that has affected thousands of civilians. He also emphasized that it is wrong to shift blame onto the United Nations and its agencies, calling for a focus on continued diplomatic efforts to achieve peace.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis echoed similar sentiments, stressing that the summit occurs amidst considerable tension in the Middle East and serves as an important platform for dialogue. He expressed hope for a unified call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza to prevent the conflict from worsening. Mitsotakis also pointed to the potential for enhanced economic cooperation, especially in the energy sector, and emphasised the importance of the Middle East as a strategic trade route between India and Europe. He called for stronger institutional dialogue between the EU and the GCC to promote closer ties and cooperation.
