Kuwait city: The European Union’s (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Vice-President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas, emphasized, Sunday, the importance of strengthening European-Gulf cooperation in confronting regional and international challenges, stressing the need to opt for diplomatic solutions as to achieve security and stability in the Middle East.

According to Qatar News Agency, this statement was made at the second high-level forum on regional security and cooperation between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the EU taking place in Kuwait, with the participation of foreign ministers and senior officials from both sides. The forum precedes the 29th joint ministerial meeting to be held Monday.

Kallas added that the common issues between the GCC and the European Union demonstrate convergence of interests and potential for future cooperation. “The world needs more diplomacy and cooperation instead of confrontation, in order to enhance dialogue and understanding to achieve regional and international stability,” she continued.

The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy stated that the discussions focused on diplomatic challenges and opportunities in the Middle East through three main issues: Iran, maritime security in the Red Sea, and the situation in Gaza.

Regarding the situation in the Gaza Strip, Kallas said that it represents a major challenge to the international order. She added that supporting the Gaza peace plan announced by US President Donald Trump is a significant development, emphasizing that achieving lasting peace in the Middle East must be based on the two-state solution, which enjoys international consensus.