Riyadh, 4 October 2021 (GNP/TDI): High Representative/Vice-President of EU Josep Borell Fontelles meets with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud. VP Borell noted that his visit exemplifies the good dynamics in their relationships, which are becoming stronger and more thorough, but that much more work needs to be done. The Cooperation Arrangement, which they signed, is another evidence of their shared commitment to strengthening their partnership. The Agreement creates a framework for frequent talks between the European External Action Service and the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs on political, security, and other mutually beneficial topics.
They also addressed the situation in neighboring Yemen and shared opinions on Afghanistan. VP Borell added that what is going on in Yemen is a horrible tragedy for the people there, and it has repercussions throughout the region. The EU recognizes Saudi Arabia’s attempts to halt the conflict, and that also condemns cross-border attacks on the Kingdom’s territory.
VP Borell also notes a discussion he held yesterday morning with Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Nayef Falah Al Hajraf. They addressed ways to improve discussion and collaboration between the two regional blocks. They already held a ministerial meeting last week in New York, and VP Borell notified their partners of their desire to hold a Joint Cooperation Council early next year, because this Joint Cooperation Council has not convened in six years, and this has to be changed.