The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the European Union (EU) reiterated the significance of collective action between both parties to address present challenges.
According to the Saudi Press Agency “SPA” on Tuesday, GCC Secretary-General Jassem Mohammed Al-Bedaiwi discussed in Brussels with the Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs of the EU External Action Service, Enrique Mora, ways to enhance cooperation between the GCC and the EU and underscored the importance of joint action to confront current challenges.
The meeting delved into topics of mutual interest, including Gulf-European bilateral relations, within the framework of the strategic partnership between the GCC and the EU, including the pathway for exempting GCC citizens from Schengen visas.
Both sides also discussed various regional and international issues of common interest, notably the recent events and serious ramifications in Gaza and their impact on the security and stability of the region and the world.
GCC Secretary-General Jassem Al-Bedaiwi announced earlier this month that negotiations to be held in Brussels with the European Union to exempt Gulf citizens from Schengen visas.
Al-Bedaiwi stated in an interview with the Saudi channel “Mekhael Ramadan” that “the Gulf states have a strong case for obtaining an exemption, and we will celebrate this year obtaining it,” noting that Britain has taken this step, allowing Gulf citizens to be exempt from obtaining its visa.
He also pointed out that the 44th Doha Summit in Qatar last December approved the Unified Gulf Visa, allowing visitors to enter the six countries without a visa.
This reaffirms the commitment of both the GCC and the EU to bolster collaboration and address shared challenges in a concerted manner, reflecting the growing importance of regional and international cooperation in today’s interconnected world.
