FNC Hosts High-Level Meeting with European Parliament President in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi: The Federal National Council (FNC), under the leadership of Saqr Ghobash, Speaker of FNC and President of the 18th Regular Meeting of the Speakers of GCC Legislative Councils, convened a significant meeting with Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament. This gathering took place at Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi and included the participation of heads from the Gulf Cooperation Council's legislative bodies. According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting was graced by prominent figures such as Ahmed bin Salman Al-Musallam, Speaker of the Council of Representatives of the Kingdom of Bahrain; Sheikh Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh, Speaker of the Shura Council of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Khalid Hilal Al Maawali, Chairman of the Shura Council of the Sultanate of Oman; Yousef bin Ali Al-Khater, Chairman of the Internal and External Affairs Committee of the Shura Council of Qatar, and Jassim Mohammed Al Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). I n his opening address, FNC Speaker Saqr Ghobash highlighted the significance of the meeting as a milestone in the development of Gulf-European parliamentary relations. He noted the importance of deepening institutional dialogue and enhancing coordination between parliamentary institutions, which serve as crucial links between the peoples of the GCC and Europe. Ghobash elaborated on the historical ties between the GCC states and Europe, which have evolved from trade and maritime routes to contemporary partnerships in economic, security, political, cultural, and social arenas. He recognized the mutual awareness and appreciation for each party's regional and international influence as the foundation of these relations. He also mentioned that the establishment of the GCC has clarified and deepened relations with the European Union, acknowledging the EU's significant role in the international arena and its advanced institutional experience. Conversely, Europe views the Gulf region as a promoter of moderation in global politics and a vital contributor to regional and international stability. Roberta Metsola expressed her gratitude to the UAE for the warm reception and commitment demonstrated in hosting the meeting. She acknowledged the ongoing security concerns in the Middle East and praised the GCC's efforts in promoting peace and stability. Metsola emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership between the European Union and the GCC. Jassim Mohammed Al Budaiwi, in his speech, expressed appreciation to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for supporting GCC unity and hosting the meeting. He also commended Saqr Ghobash for initiating the session and underscored the importance of ongoing high-level visits and dialogue between the two sides.