Press remarks by President António Costa following the visit to United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar 13:30 European Council President António Costa held a press[...]

I have just concluded two days of meetings with the leaders of the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. This visit came at a critical moment, in the context of a fragile ceasefire and the unjustifiable attacks these countries have faced.

The European Union stands in full solidarity with the countries and people of the Gulf. Iran's attacks have violated their sovereignty and territorial integrity. And this is unacceptable. We also deeply appreciate the care our Gulf partners have taken to ensure the safety of many European citizens living in the region. In my discussions, I reaffirmed that the European Union is a reliable partner for the Gulf countries. The Gulf countries can count on the European Union - now and in the future.

The purpose of my visit was simple. Listen to the leaders. Get their assessment of the current situation. And offer the support of the European Union - with two main priorities in mind:

1. work towards a stable and lasting ceasefire that could pave the way to sustainable peace in the region
2. restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz

Since the beginning of this conflict, the European Union has been consistent in calling for de-escalation and negotiations in full respect of international law. It is essential that all parties use the momentum created by the recent US-Iran ceasefire brokered by Pakistan in order to address the concerns of the international community regarding Iran. That means nuclear programme of course. But also its ballistic missile programme. Iran's support of proxies destabilising the region. And the blockade of international sea lanes. The Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea are vital arteries for the global economy, supply chains, and world trade.

This war has already had disastrous consequences that are being felt all over the world. And that will only get worse, with every day without a solution to this conflict. Restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz is crucial and urgent. And Europe is committed to help guarantee the safe and unimpeded passage of ships. This is the objective of the coalition of countries that France and the UK are assembling, with partners around the world.

Before concluding, let me say a few words in particular about the situation in Lebanon. Hezbollah poses an existential threat for Lebanon and a dangerous destabilising factor for international peace and security. The EU commends President Aoun's historic decision to ban the military activities of Hezbollah. The EU will continue to support Lebanon. Empowering the authorities to disarm Hezbollah is the only sustainable solution for restoring Lebanon's international stability. The negotiations held yesterday between Israel and Lebanon in Washington are a welcome step. It is crucial that these talks continue and yield results - for the sake of the people, and for the prospect of peace.

Let me conclude by repeating that the EU is a reliable and predictable partner for the Gulf countries. We are here to support the region's stability and security. We want to make our cooperation deeper and stronger. And this is the message I heard from all the leaders I met this week.