Davos: On the sidelines of the 2026 Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum, TRENDS Research and Advisory, in collaboration with the Middle East Institute Switzerland (MEIS), organised the 'Europe-Middle East Strategic Dialogue' at Davos Lodge. The high-level event brought together ministers, policymakers, CEOs, thought leaders, and strategic experts from Europe and Gulf countries.
According to Emirates News Agency, the dialogue took place amid shifts in the international system, with unipolarity giving way to a multipolar world, necessitating a redefinition of economic and technological partnerships among mid-level and influential powers. Dr. Mohamed Abdullah Al Ali, CEO of TRENDS, opened the dialogue by highlighting the evolution of Europe-Gulf relations into a strategic alliance shaped by global geopolitical and economic transformations. He called for strengthening the relationship through diversified supply chains, investments in future-oriented sectors, and enhanced integration across energy, technology, and knowledge domains.
Dr. Victor J. Willi, Executive Director of MEIS, noted the dialogue's reflection of the growing recognition for long-term cooperation frameworks based on trust and joint innovation amid accelerating geopolitical changes. The first session, moderated by Su-Young Kang, explored digital sovereignty and artificial intelligence as pillars of the future Europe-Gulf partnership. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti emphasized the UAE's advancements in AI governance and cybersecurity.
The second session, moderated by Christine Claire Graefff, focused on the Gulf's transformation into a global hub for business and innovation. Luigi Di Maio highlighted the need for 'middle powers' to enhance coordination to stabilize supply chains. Naser Al Ali stressed the importance of scientific research and knowledge for sustainable international partnerships, emphasizing the role of think tanks in connecting policymakers with scientific analysis.
The dialogue underscored the depth of the Europe-Gulf partnership, noting that the EU is the Gulf's second-largest trading partner, with trade exceeding £161 billion. The partnership is characterized by diversity in advanced technologies, energy, chemical industries, consulting services, and research collaboration.
The dialogue concluded with an emphasis on the Davos 2026 meeting as a launch of a sustainable strategic dialogue between Europe and the Gulf states. This dialogue aims to strengthen cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence, energy security, climate transition, and scientific research, contributing to shaping the international order in the post-2026 era.