We are deeply honoured to have the European Chamber of Commerce in Saudi Arabia (ECCKSA) acknowledged by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during her address at the first-ever EU-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) summit, held in Brussels on 16 October 2024.

In her address, President von der Leyen highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships, stating:
“Trade and investments are the backbone of our relationship, and our economic ties are growing. We need to build more strategic connections, be it on trade, energy, of course innovation and technology, for example AI, and critically people-to-people contacts.

This is the reason for our ambition to extend the network of European Chambers of Commerce in the region, like the one recently opened in Saudi Arabia. Our economies and societies are going through deep technological transformation and value-based change. To face and shape them together, we need to synchronise our actions, and that’s what we are doing.”

This recognition highlights ECCKSA’s critical role in strengthening economic ties between Europe and the GCC, as we work to build bridges of trade, innovation, and mutual growth.

As EU and GCC leaders discussed advancing partnerships for peace and prosperity, ECCKSA stands committed to supporting this shared vision by promoting robust trade and investment links that benefit both regions.