China and the Gulf states beyond the Iran war: Prospects and implications for Europe

The member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) remain significant to global politics due to their vast energy reserves. To the European Union (EU), the Gulf’s significance is enhanced by its geographical position, which makes it a critical node connecting Europe to Asia. The EU has signalled growing interest in the region. It adopted a strategic partnership with the Gulf in 2022, appointed its first Special Representative for the region in 2023, and in 2024 held its first summit with the GCC while also deploying naval forces to protect shipping in the Red Sea through Operation Aspides.