Middle East and Europe security are 'unprecedentedly' connected, says GCC chief

Security in the Middle East and Europe are "unprecedentedly" connected, according to Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Speaking at the GLOBSEC Global Security Forum 2026 in Prague, Albudaiwi emphasized the GCC's commitment to enhancing security, stability, development, and prosperity for mutual benefit.

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The GCC member states consistently seek to bolster security, stability, development, and prosperity to serve the mutual interests of the people in the region and entire world, noting the rapid geopolitical shifts and growing security and economic challenges facing the globe.

Albudaiwi stated that the GCC General Secretariat's participation in the forum demonstrates its dedication to maintaining an active presence in international forums. This engagement aims to foster communication and exchange perspectives with global partners, decision-makers, and experts, thereby supporting efforts to preserve regional and international security amidst rapid global changes.

Addressing the conflict in the Middle East, he noted that GCC states are actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and promote dialogue. Protecting regional security, stability, and the safety of its populations remains a priority. Albudaiwi underscored the critical importance of safeguarding air and maritime corridors, ensuring freedom of navigation, the security of supply chains, and the stability of global energy markets.

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The GCC General Secretariat’s participation in the GLOBSEC Global Security Forum 2026 embodies its keenness to maintain an active presence in regional and international forums.

"The stability of the Gulf region remains a fundamental pillar for the stability of the global economy and international maritime security," Albudaiwi remarked. He further explained that recent events have proven the deep interconnection between European and Middle Eastern security, stating that any disruption in the Gulf region directly impacts the European economy, global energy security, supply chains, and overall international stability. "Gulf stability is no longer merely a regional matter, but has become a shared international interest," he concluded.

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GCC states have sustained their continuous diplomatic efforts to de-escalate and defuse tensions in the region, promoting paths of dialogue and diplomacy to protect regional security, stability, and the safety of its peoples.

Looking ahead, Albudaiwi expressed that both the GCC and European sides aspire to broaden their ties. The upcoming GCC-EU Summit is expected to solidify cooperation across various fields and achieve mutual interests, with a focus on tangible results that advance ongoing collaboration.

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The stability of the Gulf region remains a fundamental pillar for the stability of the global economy and international maritime security.