BRUSSELS: His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance, arrived today in Brussels to lead a UAE delegation at the first-ever GCC-European Union Summit. This historic meeting is set to discuss enhancing cooperation in various sectors including economy, trade, technology, and scientific research. According to Emirates News Agency, Sheikh Maktoum was greeted by Jassim Mohammed Al Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, along with other high-ranking officials. The summit represents a significant step in strengthening relations between the Gulf Cooperation Council countries and the European Union, focusing on mutual interests and challenges across bilateral and regional levels. The UAE delegation includes several key figures such as Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation; Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade; Khalifa Shaheen Al Ma rar, Minister of State; Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs; and Mohamed Al Sahlawi, UAE Ambassador to the European Union, Belgium, and Luxembourg. The event underscores the robust and expanding ties between the GCC and the EU, highlighting shared priorities such as sustainability, artificial intelligence, and economic development. It marks a milestone in the Gulf-European strategic partnership, aiming to facilitate progress on important issues and foster new opportunities for collaboration.