Abu Dhabi: Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam, Speaker of the Council of Representatives and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Parliamentary Division, participated in a significant meeting of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) parliamentary leaders with Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament. The meeting took place in Abu Dhabi, focusing on the enhancement of cooperation between the GCC and the European Union.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Al Musallam highlighted the Kingdom of Bahrain's dedication, under the guidance of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, to reinforcing strong ties with the European Union and fostering collaboration across various sectors to support mutual interests. He articulated that bolstering parliamentary dialogue between the GCC and the European Parliament could lead to more effective relationships and mutual understanding, essential for legislative, political, and security partnerships, as well as trade, investment, and joint projects like digitalisation and sustainable supply chains.
Al Musallam also stressed the necessity of a balanced free trade agreement between the GCC and the EU. He praised the GCC's achievements in economic development, regional security, global stability, and the promotion of values such as tolerance, coexistence, human rights, and the empowerment of women and youth. He noted these values align with those of the European Union, paving the way for new collaborative opportunities.
Reflecting on the first GCC-EU summit held in Brussels in October of the previous year, Al Musallam regarded it as a historic event that set the stage for deeper dialogue and partnership. He mentioned that the current meeting builds on the summit's achievements, offering a platform to enhance parliamentary cooperation and address common challenges.
Al Musallam expressed optimism that the joint parliamentary meeting would usher in a new phase of GCC-European parliamentary collaboration, considering the longstanding history of cooperation and shared strategic goals between the regions. He further highlighted the meeting's timing amid critical developments in the Middle East, urging international efforts to protect civilians, alleviate Palestinian suffering, ensure a Gaza ceasefire, and deliver humanitarian aid for lasting peace based on a two-state solution.
He raised concerns over recent Israeli attacks on the Islamic Republic of Iran, warning of potential wider conflict that could endanger regional stability, international security, and the global economy. Al Musallam called on the international community to act swiftly to de-escalate tensions and prevent further military escalation, emphasizing the need for dialogue and diplomatic solutions in accordance with state sovereignty and international law to avoid further instability and destruction.
The Bahrain parliamentary delegation to the meeting also included MP Ahmed Sabah Al Salloom, Ejlal Isa Bubshait, member of the Shura Council, and Mohammed Ibrahim Al Sisi Al Buainain, Secretary-General of the Council of Representatives and Secretary of the Executive Committee of the Parliamentary Division.