Bucharest has hosted the launch of the Euro-GCC Economic Platform, a landmark event that opens new horizons for economic and cultural collaboration between Europe and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
Bringing together over 80 business leaders, investors, and government officials from Romania and the GCC, the event provided a dynamic framework for strategic initiatives and impactful partnerships.
"We need economic agility and stronger business connections between the two regions. Trusted facilitators like Euro-GCC are essential for building a robust platform—not just for our generation but as a legacy for future generations. We aim to grow this initiative alongside key stakeholders from both regions and support our members in shaping and executing their inter-regional economic goals," said Alin Gheran, President and Co-Founder of Euro-GCC.
Inspiring speeches and strategic collaboration
The event opened with a keynote speech by Alin Gheran, President of Euro GCC, emphasising the importance of agile and transparent cooperation between Europe and the GCC. Key speakers included:
•Florin Marian Spătaru, State Advisor and former Minister of Economy, who emphasised the need for a dedicated platform for economic cooperation that maintains an open dialogue with the State to align our efforts.
•Dr Aaron Farrugia, former Minister of Malta, actual member of Maltese Parliament, who stated: "Our role is to act as a bridge for both sides to pursue wide-ranging economic opportunities, to promote the Gulf as a highly relevant market for European companies with lucrative opportunities in the many mega-projects being pursued and implemented there. To assist European companies in helping the Gulf region with its diversification efforts, trade ties to Europe, and access to European know-how, expertise, and technology."
•Lady Maria Hall-D’Annunzio, an intercultural expert in GCC region, who provided valuable insights on the dynamics of cross-regional collaboration.
•Anglitoiu George, Head of Foreign Investment Dept of Competition Council presented the complex system and Euro-Atlantic standards for foreign investments, highlighting that Romania is a safe space for investors, with a regulated framework that increases trust and investment appetite.
Private sector leaders, including Alexandru Diaconu (AiGIA Health), Alexandru Crăciun (DP World Romania), Mihai Manole (CEO Simtel), Mihai Tudor (CEO Tema Energy) and Marius Morra (Tokero), shared innovative approaches to fostering development in fields such as energy, technology, and infrastructure.
Liliana Grosaru-Filip, Euro GCC Vice President of Strategy and International Affairs concluded the first day keynote speeches with an open call for future members to join the platform and help shape business cooperation impact for both regions.
Exclusive networking and strategic partnerships
The second day focused on private matchmaking sessions, thematic presentations, and discussions on unlocking opportunities in trade, technology, and real estate between Europe and the GCC. Key activities included closed-roundtables on following topics:
•Presentations by Romanian high-tech and R&D companies to GCC investors.
•Exploration of trade opportunities in both regions.
•Real estate investment initiatives culminating in planned economic missions for participating companies.
The day concluded with a live painting session by renowned artist George Iulian Bădițescu, who captured the event's dynamic atmosphere, followed by a moving recital by internationally acclaimed pianist Mariano Castro.
A platform for future generations
The Euro-GCC Economic Platform is designed to bridge Europe and the GCC, offering tailored matchmaking services and fostering sustainable, impactful partnerships.
"This platform is more than an economic initiative; it is the foundation for collaborations that will shape the future of international relations between Europe and the GCC. We invite all interested parties to join us in this shared vision," added Liliana Grosaru-Filip, Vice President of Strategy and International Affairs.
Member benefits and call to action
Euro-GCC members enjoy:
•Exclusive access to business and investment opportunities in Europe and the GCC.
•Tailored matchmaking services and strategic advice.
•Participation in high-level networking events and industry-specific workshops.
•Support in developing interregional projects and access to a robust network of experts and leaders.--TradeArabia News Service