The President of the European Parliament and the Presidents of the Councils, representatives, national and other legislative assemblies of the member countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council gathered in Brussels on October 16, 2026, to hold the second Conference of the Presidents of the European Parliament and the Gulf Cooperation Council. This meeting followed the meeting on June 23, 2025, in Abu Dhabi and the first summit of the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council held on October 16, 2024, in Brussels.
Strengthening Partnership and Regional Security
Participants in this conference emphasized the importance of partnership between Europe and the Gulf region, considering it a stable pillar in the current turbulent times. They called for the upcoming summit of the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council to incorporate a parliamentary dimension by establishing a deeper strategic partnership.
Strengthening ties and mutual communications between the parties is seen as a strategic manifestation of shared interests. This statement emphasizes the importance of establishing open, secure, and sustainable communications through maritime, land, air routes, and digital networks, which are essential for trade, energy, investment, security, resilience, and the well-being of peoples.
Energy Challenges and Cooperation
Recent disruptions in shipping routes, especially in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, caused by attacks from Iran and its proxy forces, highlight the intertwining of the prosperity and security of various regions. Participants called on the summit leaders to take effective actions regarding these shared interests.
In this context, energy security and diversification of energy sources were emphasized as two fundamental pillars for strengthening economic stability. These components must align with sustainable development and particularly address the existing challenges in energy markets and supply chain disruptions.
Participants called for the formulation of joint solutions to ensure energy sustainability and reliability, support infrastructure development, and expand cooperation in modern technologies. They also stressed the need to create a sustainable and predictable economic framework for this partnership.
In this conference, participants also highlighted the necessity of strengthening parliamentary and public communications, increasing mobility and cultural and educational exchanges, as well as encouraging tourism. They reaffirmed their commitment to advancing safe and mutually beneficial visa-free travel arrangements with the remaining five countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council.
Condemnation of Iran's Actions and the Necessity of Security Cooperation
The ongoing attacks by Iran against the member countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council were strongly condemned, and participants emphasized the right to self-defense under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. They called on Iran and its proxy forces to immediately and unconditionally cease these attacks.
Participants also emphasized the importance of adhering to United Nations Security Council resolutions and strengthening cooperation in maritime security, cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and the protection of critical infrastructure. They referred to the importance of dialogue, diplomacy, and international law as a basis for restoring stability and achieving sustainable solutions.
In conclusion, participants emphasized the necessity of supporting civilians and respecting international law in Palestinian territories and expressed support for political and diplomatic efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace.
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