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Wednesday, Feb 26, 2025
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Luigi Di Maio's Term as EU Special Representative in the Gulf Extended
The former Italian minister will continue to lead EU relations with Gulf countries for another two years.
Brussels – Luigi Di Maio's tenure as the EU Special Representative for the Gulf region has been extended for an additional two years, according to an announcement from the EU Council.
Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, had previously praised Di Maio's “outstanding performance” in a communication to member countries as early as December 20, 2022.
The decision to prolong Di Maio's mandate comes as the EU seeks to solidify its strategic partnerships with key nations in the Gulf region.
His role involves fostering a comprehensive and strategic EU partnership with sovereign states including Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates.
The EU Council underscored that Di Maio's efforts will focus on stabilizing and securing the Gulf region through dialogue and long-term collaborative initiatives with these countries and other relevant regional organizations.
Luigi Di Maio, a prominent figure in the Italian political landscape and a member of the Five Star Movement, was initially appointed as the first Special Representative for the Gulf by former EU diplomacy chief Josep Borrell on May 15, 2023. Di Maio officially began his mandate on June 1, 2023, with an original term set for 21 months.
During his time in office, he has been credited with enhancing cooperation between the EU and the Gulf Cooperation Council, particularly in various sectors including political consultations, security dialogues, trade and investment, as well as sustainability initiatives aimed at green energy and strengthening interpersonal relations between Europe and Gulf nations.
Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, had previously praised Di Maio's “outstanding performance” in a communication to member countries as early as December 20, 2022.
The decision to prolong Di Maio's mandate comes as the EU seeks to solidify its strategic partnerships with key nations in the Gulf region.
His role involves fostering a comprehensive and strategic EU partnership with sovereign states including Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates.
The EU Council underscored that Di Maio's efforts will focus on stabilizing and securing the Gulf region through dialogue and long-term collaborative initiatives with these countries and other relevant regional organizations.
Luigi Di Maio, a prominent figure in the Italian political landscape and a member of the Five Star Movement, was initially appointed as the first Special Representative for the Gulf by former EU diplomacy chief Josep Borrell on May 15, 2023. Di Maio officially began his mandate on June 1, 2023, with an original term set for 21 months.
During his time in office, he has been credited with enhancing cooperation between the EU and the Gulf Cooperation Council, particularly in various sectors including political consultations, security dialogues, trade and investment, as well as sustainability initiatives aimed at green energy and strengthening interpersonal relations between Europe and Gulf nations.
