Costa seeks new cooperation with Gulf countries: “We must defend the international order, or there will be chaos”

Brussels – A new chapter in bilateral and regional cooperation, in defense of the status quo. The President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, is calling on Arab leaders to change course, moving in the opposite direction to that indicated by the United States and Israel: “We are living in difficult times, and in these difficult times we must uphold the rules-based international order, because the alternative is chaos,” he emphasized during the press conference held following his meeting with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. 

Costa’s words echo those repeatedly voiced by European Union representatives to distance themselves from the unilateral actions of US President Donald Trump. In this regard, his trip to the Persian Gulf is intended to reaffirm the EU’s position and approach. “I am here to say that we support the Gulf States and condemn Iran’s attacks.” The European Union, he assures, is ready to provide “diplomatic support,” and the European Council President’s trip is part of this effort. 

Costa has chosen to tour the Arab Gulf states following the announcement of the ceasefire between the United States and Iran, in an attempt to achieve a definitive, lasting peace that has yet to be achieved. The EU intends to make a contribution, and, as Costa explains, “we discussed initiatives aimed at easing tensions in the region with the Emir of Qatar, setting ourselves two priorities: working towards a more stable and lasting ceasefire that can pave the way for sustainable peace in the region,” and “restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.” 

In the background, however, there is more at stake, namely the opening of a new chapter in relations between the blocs: “The EU is committed to strengthening its strategic ties with Qatar and its Gulf partners, particularly in the areas of energy security, trade, and investment, and humanitarian cooperation,” Costa adds. Unlike other players, “the EU is a reliable and predictable partner for the Gulf countries.”