GCC Aims to Boost Ties with Mediterranean Nations for Peace

Photo: WAM

Jassem Al-Budaiwi, the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), recently spoke about the need to build stronger cooperation between GCC countries and Mediterranean nations. He said that better cooperation would help improve peace, stability, and development in the region.

He made these comments during a panel discussion at the Dubrovnik Forum 2025, which took place on July 11–12 in Dubrovnik, Croatia. The session was titled “Reviewing the Prospects for Cooperation between the Mediterranean Countries and Various Countries of the World and Regional and International Organisations.”

Why GCC Sees Itself as a Strong Partner

Al-Budaiwi explained why the GCC is ready and capable of becoming a reliable and valuable partner to Mediterranean countries. He mentioned that the GCC:

• Has a strategic geographic location

• Holds a respected position internationally

• Enjoys growing economic strength

• Plays a key role in ensuring global energy supply

• Has a reputation for being a trusted and credible regional actor

He emphasized that these advantages allow the GCC to play a major role in helping stabilize and develop the Mediterranean region.

The Shared Goal: Peace, Security, and Prosperity

The GCC Secretary-General made it clear that the purpose of building these partnerships is not just to benefit the Gulf countries. He stressed that it is about supporting long-term peace and prosperity in both regions.

He pointed out that the challenges facing the world today—such as economic instability, energy concerns, and rising security threats—can only be handled well if countries work together. The Mediterranean and Gulf regions have many shared interests, which makes them natural partners.

Enhancing Regional Dialogue and Cooperation

According to Al-Budaiwi, the GCC wants to increase dialogue and deepen cooperation not just with Mediterranean countries, but with the entire international community. He called for active partnerships with governments, global institutions, and other regional councils.

The goal of this approach is to make sure that every country—big or small—has a voice in shaping the future. Strong partnerships will also help countries face current challenges and prepare for future ones.

The Role of the Dubrovnik Forum

The Dubrovnik Forum is a major event held every year in Croatia. It brings together top-level officials, diplomats, and experts from around the world to discuss regional cooperation and global issues. The 2025 edition focused on the future of the Mediterranean region and how it can form new partnerships for security, trade, and development.

By attending this forum, the GCC showed its serious interest in global engagement and its readiness to contribute to building a peaceful and cooperative world.

How the GCC Contributes to Global Peace

During his speech, Al-Budaiwi explained that the GCC is more than just a regional alliance. It has become an important part of the global political and economic system. For example:

• Energy Security: Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Kuwait provide a large part of the world’s oil and gas. This makes them essential partners in global energy policy.

• Political Stability: The GCC countries are known for being relatively stable and peaceful in a region that has seen a lot of conflict.

• Economic Growth: GCC economies have been growing fast due to investment in infrastructure, education, and innovation.

• Trusted Partners: GCC countries are seen as reliable when it comes to trade, finance, and diplomacy.

These factors make the GCC a powerful player in promoting international cooperation.

Looking to the Future

Al-Budaiwi highlighted that this is the right time to build strong alliances. With the world facing serious problems like climate change, food shortages, and migration, countries can no longer work alone. Only through global partnerships can such challenges be managed effectively.

He said the GCC is eager to play its part, not only in the Middle East but also across the Mediterranean and beyond.

Expanding the Scope of Cooperation

Beyond just political cooperation, the GCC wants to work with Mediterranean countries in various other areas:

• Trade and Investment: Boosting the exchange of goods, services, and capital between the regions.

• Education and Culture: Encouraging student exchanges, cultural programs, and shared learning.

• Technology: Working together in areas like renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and artificial intelligence.

• Tourism: Making it easier for people to travel between Gulf and Mediterranean nations for work or leisure.

• Environmental Protection: Sharing ideas and solutions to deal with water scarcity, desertification, and pollution.

A Reliable and Stable Partner

Al-Budaiwi stated that the GCC is already seen as a stable and reliable bloc. Countries around the world know they can count on the Gulf nations to honor agreements, maintain peace, and act responsibly in regional and global matters.

He said the GCC would continue to build on its current reputation by engaging in new forms of cooperation that are mutually beneficial.

Encouraging Stronger Relationships with International Groups

The Secretary-General also stressed the importance of working with regional and global organizations, such as:

• The United Nations

• The European Union

• The African Union

• The Arab League

• Other economic and security groups

He said that this kind of cooperation allows for better policy-making and ensures that every region can benefit from global development goals.

A Clear Vision for Peace and Progress

Jassem Al-Budaiwi closed his remarks by urging countries to focus on long-term solutions and shared goals. He said the GCC will keep working to be a force for good in the world—helping bring peace, economic success, and strong partnerships to the Mediterranean region and beyond.

The message from the GCC was clear: through strong cooperation and trust, countries can overcome differences, solve problems, and build a better future for all.