EU-GCC Leaders Meet in Milan to Boost Security and Energy Ties

Senior officials, policymakers and experts from Europe and the Gulf gathered in Milan on Friday for a major initiative aimed at strengthening cooperation between the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) during a period of growing regional instability.

The high-level event was held at Palazzo Clerici and organized by Doha Forum and MED Dialogues in partnership with Italian Institute for International Political Studies and Center for International Policy Research.

Held under the theme “Bridging Stability: EU-GCC Cooperation in an Era of Fragmentation,” the discussions focused on finding coordinated solutions to rising regional challenges and the changing geopolitical landscape after recent conflicts in the Middle East.

Participants discussed the ongoing conflict involving Iran and its wider impact on regional stability, global energy markets and economic security. Talks also highlighted the importance of stronger cooperation between the EU and GCC in areas including security, crisis management, energy resilience and trade.

Special attention was given to developments in the Gulf region, the Levant and major maritime trade routes that are considered critical for global commerce and energy supplies.

The plenary session featured Dr Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari, Adviser to the Prime Minister and official spokesperson for Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, alongside Luigi Di Maio.

Speaking during the session, Dr Al Ansari described the Gulf as “a stable partner for Europe in security and energy,” adding that the current regional crisis has shown the strong shared interests between both sides.

He stressed that future stability would require continuous and structured cooperation capable of handling periods of instability and regional tensions.

Luigi Di Maio said security in the Gulf and Europe is “closely interconnected and inseparable,” emphasizing the need to build stronger partnerships and greater trust to effectively deal with shared challenges.

Closed-door discussions during the event focused on the future regional order after the conflict, defense cooperation, energy security and industrial policy. Participants underlined the importance of turning diplomatic dialogue into practical and coordinated action.

The event concluded with a reception hosted by the Consulate General of Qatar in Milan.

Organizers also confirmed that the 24th edition of the Doha Forum 2026 will take place in Doha on December 5–6, 2026, under the theme “Redefining Global Trust.” The forum is expected to bring together world leaders and policymakers to discuss international cooperation and confidence-building in a rapidly changing global environment.