Resumption of EU–GCC free trade talks marks a ‘Highly Significant’ step
Kuwait has always been and remains a vital partner in this relationship – Paula Pinho
- Resuming free trade agreement negotiations with the Gulf Cooperation Council is a highly significant development after a two-decade hiatus.
- Relations with Kuwait are not limited to the economic or cultural aspects, but can extend to defense and security cooperation.
The chief spokesperson for the European Commission, Paula Pinho, has described the resumption of free trade agreement negotiations between the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) as “a highly significant development after nearly two decades of suspension,” emphasizing that Kuwait has always been and remains a pivotal partner in this relationship.
In an exclusive interview with Al-Jarida in Brussels, Pinho — the EU’s top official responsible for managing the Commission’s media relations — said she feels a personal connection to the renewed talks.
“You won’t believe it,” she said with a smile, “but this topic is very close to my heart. I worked on the EU–GCC Free Trade Agreement negotiations twenty years ago, coordinating aspects of those discussions. That’s why I am truly delighted to see these talks revived after such a long pause,” reports Al-Jarida daily.
Pinho described the Gulf region as one of “tremendous potential”, expressing regret that the agreement had not been completed in the past, yet stressing that “it’s better to restart now than never.”
“It’s unfortunate that we couldn’t finalize the deal two decades ago,” she added. “Today, we clearly see how many shared interests and mutual opportunities exist between the two sides. I am genuinely happy that negotiations have resumed, and I hope this step leads to tangible results soon. There are many areas where we can work together.”
Asked about the nature of relations between the EU and Kuwait — particularly following the EU–GCC Joint Ministerial Meeting held in Kuwait last October — Pinho said that ties with Kuwait extend beyond economics, noting the potential for cooperation in new areas.
“Our relationship is not limited to economic or cultural dimensions,” she explained. “It can expand to include defense and security cooperation, built on mutual respect and shared interests.”
Commenting on the EU’s approach to diplomacy and occasional differences in tone among European leaders, Pinho clarified that the Union balances public positions with quiet, behind-the-scenes diplomacy, calling this “part of the European way of doing foreign policy.”
“There is always a distinction between public statements and the efforts made behind closed doors,” she said. “European leaders maintain constant communication with their counterparts and relevant actors. The public rhetoric may vary, but real progress happens quietly, in a coordinated and deliberate manner.”
Pinho also noted that differing opinions within the EU are natural and reflect its diversity. “This doesn’t mean there’s a lack of decision-making,” she said. “It’s actually a sign of democratic vitality within European institutions.”
Addressing the Israel–Gaza conflict, Pinho acknowledged that observers sometimes perceive varying tones among EU institutions.
“For example,” she said, “High Representative Josep Borrell has focused more on the humanitarian and human rights aspects in Gaza, while Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s statements have had a different tone and approach.”
She clarified, however, that von der Leyen has consistently expressed concern about the situation in Gaza, maintaining communication with Israeli leaders whenever developments required discussion.
“It’s important to distinguish between what is said publicly and the diplomatic work that continues behind the scenes,” she stressed. “In the end, we speak collectively as a Commission — representing a range of views. The challenge lies in keeping the European message balanced and reflective of that diversity, while still taking clear action.”
Pinho concluded her remarks by emphasizing the importance of capitalizing on the renewed momentum in EU–GCC relations.
“We’ve waited a long time to revive this process,” she said. “I believe the current moment is ripe for genuine progress. There is growing awareness of the need for balanced cooperation — whether in trade, energy, development, or innovation. As I’ve said before, it’s better to complete this agreement late than never at all.”
