EU and GCC Forge Ties Amidst Global Conflicts

The European Union (EU) held its first summit with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to forge closer ties amidst ongoing wars in the Middle East and Ukraine. EU leaders emphasized the importance of working together with GCC countries such as Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE on global security, trade, and climate change. The summit focused heavily on the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, highlighting the EU's divided stance on Israel's military actions. Efforts were also made to address Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with varying degrees of alignment among GCC nations. Human rights issues, particularly involving Saudi Arabia, were also discussed, drawing criticisms due to past controversies. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin is seeking BRICS support to counter Western pressure, proposing an alternative payment system and trade infrastructure that bypasses Western financial systems.