EU-GCC summit: Strength in numbers

The middle way

But there is another angle to consider when looking at the significance and impact of this meeting. In an increasingly fragmented and uncertain world, where traditional superpowers appear to be less able—or willing—to exert influence, alliances of middle powers are becoming more important and are actively pursued.

Both the EU and the GCC have been diversifying their partnerships away from traditional partners in a bid to exert greater strategic autonomy; the former with ASEAN and the latter with BRICS being two examples.

Added to this is the unknown outcome of the upcoming US presidential election and the policies that will follow. This presents a challenge for both the GCC and the EU. The GCC will be looking to gauge from the US and EU the level of interest in—and commitment to—its immediate neighbourhood. The EU is increasingly concerned about Russian intentions in Europe and the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.

Looking down the line at the possibility of a less present or engaged Washington in Europe and one continuing to support Israel's destabilising activities in the Middle East, it will pay dividends for the EU and GCC to have good friends nearby.  Both want enhanced strategic interdependence—but the issues that have previously stalled or prevented closer cooperation still exist. So, achieving agreement will require flexibility, innovative approaches, and an appreciation of each other's positions, strengths and leverageable assets in pursuit of shared objectives.

What lies ahead

The joint statement released at the conclusion of the summit suggests a promising recognition of what is needed.

Most importantly, the statement affirms the commitment of both sides to reaching a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine issue. It welcomed the launch of the Global Alliance for the Implementation of a Palestinian State and a Two-State Solution on 27 September in the margins of this year's UNGA, spearheaded by Saudi Arabia, the EU and Norway. Nine of the EU's 27 member states currently recognise Palestine, and while the summit statement falls short of an EU-wide recognition of a Palestinian state, GCC countries will undoubtedly pursue this goal in upcoming forums.

The statement also notes the importance of diplomatic engagement with Iran to pursue de-escalation—a clear reference to the approach taken by the GCC—and indicates interest in a "close" EU-GCC dialogue on ensuring Tehran's nuclear programme remains peaceful.

Given the failure to include GCC input during the 2015 nuclear deal (JCPOA) negotiations, the US withdrawal from the agreement under former President Trump, and the possibility of a return to maximum pressure if he regains the White House in November, this dialogue could be significant in achieving results—especially if it can draw on the GCC's carefully calibrated newfound relations with Iran.

Separately, both sides also agreed to resume negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Talks began some twenty-five years ago but were halted in 2008. The EU is the GCC's second largest trade partner, generating €170bn euros in trade in 2023—but an FTA has been consistently derailed by differing opinions on environmental standards, human rights laws, and public procurement clauses, among other matters. However, the statement's choice of language—"to explore tailor-made trade and investment agreements"—indicates a much-needed willingness to think outside the box.  

A chance for real progress

This summit has laid strong foundations for a solid partnership between the EU and the GCC. Current geopolitics clearly show that actions speak louder than words, and this event is the first step towards implementing joint measures and positions that could make a material difference. Riyadh will host the next summit in 2026, offering an opportunity to work towards realising a strategic partnership and achieving mutually beneficial outcomes.