Dubrovnik, Croatia - Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi emphasized the significance of enhancing cooperation and strategic partnership between GCC states and Mediterranean countries during his participation in the high-level discussion session titled "Exploring Prospects for Cooperation between Mediterranean Countries and Various Nations Worldwide with Regional and International Organizations" at the Dubrovnik Forum 2025.

Al-Budaiwi stated that such collaboration would strengthen regional security and stability while advancing shared development and prosperity for both regions. The forum, which opened yesterday in Dubrovnik, concludes today.

"The strategic location of GCC countries, their regional and international standing, global credibility, growing economic strength, and pivotal role in ensuring global energy security all represent fundamental pillars for building effective and integrated partnerships with Mediterranean nations," Al-Budaiwi said.

He added: "Through these foundations, the GCC serves as a reliable and influential partner that can effectively contribute to supporting stability and sustainable development efforts in the Mediterranean region and beyond." The Secretary-General affirmed "the Council's aspiration to continue strengthening dialogue and cooperation with various regional and international partners to serve common interests and contribute to enhancing global security and peace."

On the sidelines of the forum, Al-Budaiwi met with Union for the Mediterranean Secretary-General Nasser Kamel to explore ways to enhance cooperation between the two organizations in several fields.

Al-Budaiwi noted: "GCC states consistently seek to strengthen their relations with countries and regional and international organizations, based on their deep belief in the importance of multilateral partnerships in supporting security, peace, and sustainable development."

He explained: "The Mediterranean region represents an important partner given the existing relations between both sides, which we aim to enhance in the coming period to build a more stable and prosperous future serving the interests of both regions' peoples."

During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on recent international and regional developments and discussed several topics of mutual interest.