The European Council is aiming to enhance its strategic plan in the Gulf region to promote peace and address key issues such as geopolitics, stability, security, and multilateral cooperation. This was revealed by Charles Michel, the President of the EU Council, during his official visit to Bahrain. The EU President expressed a commitment to playing a more influential and positive role in bringing peace to the region. His visit to Bahrain is part of a Gulf tour that includes other key countries in the region, leading up to the first Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and European Union summit scheduled for October in Brussels.
During his meeting with His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, President Michel discussed various regional and international issues, with a focus on the Middle East, particularly the Gaza situation. He emphasized the importance of listening to the advice and opinion of HM the King for the successful preparation of the upcoming summit. The EU Council is prioritizing securing a ceasefire in Gaza and ensuring humanitarian aid reaches those affected to alleviate their suffering. Both sides are committed to a lasting and comprehensive peace based on a two-state solution, which would enhance stability and security in the region.
The EU Council is actively working on establishing a European Chamber of Commerce in Bahrain to enhance cooperation between the two sides. The EU ambassador to Bahrain will hold a formal meeting with the working group to discuss progress on this initiative. President Michel noted that the long-standing relationship between the EU and Bahrain is based on mutual trust and positive outcomes from meetings with HM the King. Updates on the visa waiver process for Bahrainis were also provided, highlighting the success of the EU’s visa cascade system and indicating the potential for full visa waiver access to the Schengen territory in the near future.
The upcoming GCC-EU summit in October will be a historic event as it will be the first summit at the leadership level between the EU and Gulf countries. President Michel underlined the significance of the summit as a political momentum to elevate the relationship between the Gulf countries and the EU to a more strategic level. Key areas of focus during the summit will include growth, investments, economic development, and trade. Despite past challenges in negotiating trade agreements, there is optimism that the summit will renew efforts and bring about strong political impressions for success.
In conclusion, the EU Council’s efforts to strengthen its strategic plan in the Gulf region, particularly in Bahrain, demonstrate a commitment to promoting peace and addressing key regional issues. The upcoming GCC-EU summit in October is expected to be a milestone event in enhancing cooperation, trade, and economic development between the EU and Gulf countries. The positive outcomes of President Michel’s visit to Bahrain, including discussions with HM the King and progress on key initiatives such as the European Chamber of Commerce and visa waivers, reflect a shared commitment to achieving stability and security in the region.
