As EU-Arab Summit Approaches, More Headaches Than Planned – Reuters

By Gabriela Baczynska

BRUSSELS – The idea of a summit between the European Union (EU) and the Arab League, originally conceived last year as a step towards fostering new friendships across the Mediterranean, has seen its outlook shift dramatically in just a few months.

The EU sees enhanced relationships with its Arab neighbors as a way to further its strategic objectives, particularly in combating illegal immigration from the Middle East and North Africa.

However, the recent murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in a Saudi consulate has complicated these efforts. European officials involved in preparing for the upcoming summit scheduled for February 24-25 in Egypt now find themselves primarily focused on minimizing potential diplomatic awkwardness.

"The intention was to warmly welcome them and enhance our cooperation, especially regarding migration," stated a European diplomat. "Now, however, we are navigating a tricky situation, as some of the leaders from the Arab League are not particularly well-regarded among us."

As the summit date approaches, confirmation of attendance from senior EU leaders remains uncertain. A preliminary meeting of Arab League and EU foreign ministers, intended to establish the summit’s agenda, concluded recently without reaching a consensus on a joint statement.

During a news conference discussing the lack of agreement, EU’s top diplomat, Federica Mogherini, was interrupted by Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit, who claimed that "complications on the European side were greater than those on the Arab side." In response, Mogherini firmly asserted, "I would suggest the opposite."

The EU’s primary focus for the upcoming summit is migration, a contentious topic that has caused significant division among member states. Hungary, which has taken a strong anti-immigration stance, vetoed a joint declaration regarding migration at a recent meeting.

"This summit has proven difficult to organize, with challenges in finding agreement on a suitable date," remarked another EU official regarding the high-level discussions planned for later this month. "While the EU is prioritizing migration, numerous other sensitive issues remain that some prefer to avoid."

SAUDI, SUDAN AND SYRIA

An important shift in the dynamics of European-Arab relations has been the waning influence of Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in recent months. The West’s relationship with Saudi Arabia, historically rooted in its status as the world’s leading oil exporter and a major arms importer, has been tested.

Since the infamous killing of journalist Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, which sparked international outrage, the Crown Prince has faced increased scrutiny. Although Riyadh initially denied involvement, it eventually acknowledged that its agents were responsible, denying, however, any direct culpability on the part of its leadership.

Despite this, Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Adel al-Jubeir, attempted to frame the dialogue with European officials positively, emphasizing a shared interest in fighting extremism and terrorism while highlighting trade and investment opportunities.

Nevertheless, the environment surrounding political engagements with the Crown Prince has become delicate for some European leaders, many of whom have been criticized for their past associations during high-profile gatherings such as the G20.

Additionally, the growing solidarity among Arab states with Sudan’s President Omar al-Bashir poses another challenge. Al-Bashir, who faces domestic upheaval and is wanted for war crimes, remains a contentious figure, making direct dealings complicated for European officials.

"We don’t engage with him directly, but we do deal with Sudan," an EU representative explained. "They could send a different representative."

Another significant figure that may present complications is Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Although he won’t be part of this summit, his potential attendance at future gatherings is a concern, especially as some Arab nations push for his reintegration following years of conflict.

European consensus remains firm against normalizing relations with Assad at this point. Belgium’s Foreign Minister Didier Reynders emphasized, "We are not in a position today to restore a standard relationship with Syria."

Conversely, countries like Austria and the Czech Republic are considering reestablishing ties, believing it could prompt the return of Syrian refugees.

As the summit preparations continue, an EU diplomat noted the slow progress and inherent discomfort, yet affirmed that there are no plans to cancel the event. "There are various diplomatic pitfalls to skirt, especially concerning engagements with leaders like Mohammed bin Salman, al-Bashir, and possibly Assad in the future."