KUWAIT CITY, Oct 7: High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas praised Kuwait’s humanitarian and diplomatic leadership, calling it a “reliable partner with high credibility on the international scene.”

In an exclusive interview with KUNA following her participation in the GCC-EU Ministerial Meeting, Kallas highlighted Kuwait’s principled stance in global affairs, shaped by its painful history of sovereignty violation in 1990. She affirmed that this experience has deepened Kuwait’s commitment to defending international law and upholding the principles of the United Nations Charter.

“The European Union considers Kuwait a strong ally in defending international legitimacy and the principle of state sovereignty,” Kallas said.

She emphasized the broad scope of dialogue between the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Kuwait, covering key issues such as regional security, clean energy, technology, and education. The two sides, she noted, share mutual interest in strengthening cooperation in scientific research, innovation, and renewable energy.

Regarding the long-discussed EU-GCC free trade agreement, Kallas stated that there is now a “real opportunity” to finalize it. Global economic shifts and trade tensions have increased the urgency for diversifying trade partnerships, making the agreement a strategic priority for both sides. She pointed out that the EU has already concluded similar trade deals with Mercosur, Indonesia, and India, stressing that a pact with the GCC would be “mutually beneficial and enhance the economic security of both parties.”

Touching on the issue of Schengen visa exemptions for Kuwaiti citizens, Kallas stated that the EU is currently finalizing a comprehensive visa strategy, which is set to be released by the end of 2025. She acknowledged growing pressures on immigration policies in Europe, which require a systemic review of entry and residence frameworks.

While visa liberalization for Kuwaitis is still pending, Kallas explained that Kuwaiti nationals currently benefit from the Cascade system, which grants multiple-entry Schengen visas for up to five years. “The plan to liberalize visas for Kuwaiti citizens is still on the table and will be reconsidered once the new visa strategy is adopted,” she affirmed.

Commending Kuwait’s longstanding contributions to humanitarian and diplomatic efforts, Kallas reiterated the EU’s aspiration to deepen its strategic partnership with the Gulf states—and Kuwait in particular—“to promote security, stability, and peace in the region and the world.”

Addressing the situation in Gaza, Kallas stated that the EU is working closely with Arab and international partners to support the implementation of the peace plan announced by US President Donald Trump, which she described as “the best realistic opportunity” to secure a permanent ceasefire and move toward a two-state solution.

She underscored the EU’s position as the largest humanitarian donor to the Palestinian people. Since July, the EU has intensified its efforts to deliver aid to Gaza, restore essential infrastructure, including desalination plants, and ensure access through the crossings.

Kallas noted that the recent unveiling of the peace plan has added momentum to diplomatic efforts. The EU is currently examining how to effectively contribute to the 20-point plan outlined in the initiative, which aims to establish a permanent ceasefire and sustainable peace.

She emphasized the EU’s desire to be a key player at the negotiating table—not just a financial contributor —but also highlighted the bloc’s strong relations with both the Palestinian and Israeli sides, as well as its political and economic expertise in peacebuilding and reconstruction.

On EU-US coordination, Kallas confirmed regular contact with Washington and regional partners to define the roles of all stakeholders, particularly in matters such as hostage release and initial humanitarian actions.

“The success of this plan,” she stressed, “depends on serious implementation, not just on intentions.”

Kallas concluded by reaffirming the EU’s unwavering support for the Palestinian Authority as the legitimate representative in any peace process. “The EU remains the main financial backer sustaining the hope of a two-state solution,” she said.