Last week, Riyadh became a focal point for international diplomacy as it hosted a series of high-level meetings with four of the original five BRICS members: Brazil, China, India, and Russia. This unexpected convergence of key global players in the Saudi capital underscores the strategic balancing act that the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is adeptly managing. The meetings revealed how GCC countries are navigating their relationships with major powers amid a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.

The week commenced with a significant visit by Chinese Premier Li Qiang, who met with Saudi leadership and the GCC. Premier Li, who assumed office in March 2023, is a prominent figure in Chinese politics and a close ally of President Xi Jinping. His visit to Riyadh was more than a routine diplomatic engagement; it was a testament to the deepening strategic partnership between China and the GCC.

China and the GCC have a longstanding relationship, with a strategic partnership formally established during Xi Jinping’s visit to the region in December 2022. This relationship has been characterized by robust economic and strategic engagements. China is a critical partner for the GCC, with over 30% of its oil exports directed to China. In return, China is a major market for GCC petrochemical products, receiving 25% of these exports. The bilateral cooperation extends beyond energy, encompassing renewables such as nuclear and hydrogen energy.

The GCC-China Joint Action Plan 2023-2027, adopted during the GCC-China summit, outlines an ambitious agenda for cooperation, including advancements in nuclear energy and space exploration. This plan is one of the most extensive agreements the GCC has signed with any partner, highlighting the strategic depth of their relationship. The two sides are also close to finalizing a free trade agreement, which would further bolster trade and investment ties.

India’s engagement with the GCC is equally significant. As the GCC’s third-largest trading partner after China and the EU, India’s economic footprint is substantial, with bilateral trade amounting to $174 billion. The recent meetings in Riyadh culminated in a joint action plan for the next five years, reflecting a commitment to expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.

The joint action plan includes provisions for trade and investment promotion, energy collaboration, agriculture, food security, transport, health, education, and cultural exchange. This comprehensive framework demonstrates India’s strategic importance to the GCC and highlights the mutual desire to deepen bilateral ties amidst a complex global environment.

The political and security dialogue between India and the GCC has also been strengthened. This enhanced dialogue reflects the growing significance of India as a strategic partner and its role in regional stability. The recent agreement underscores both parties’ commitment to addressing shared challenges and exploring new avenues for cooperation.

Russia’s relationship with the GCC has evolved since the establishment of the strategic dialogue format in 2011. Over the years, Russia and the GCC have engaged in numerous political consultations, reflecting a shared understanding on issues such as Gaza, Palestine, and Yemen. However, there are notable areas of divergence, including Syria and Russia’s military ties with Iran.

Despite these differences, the GCC and Russia have maintained a cooperative relationship, particularly in the context of their roles within OPEC+ and the Gas Exporting Countries Forum. These platforms have enabled both parties to coordinate their policies and ensure market stability amidst fluctuating global oil prices.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s recent remarks in Riyadh highlighted Russia’s vision for a new global order. Lavrov argued that the traditional rules-based world order, championed by the US and its European allies, is becoming increasingly obsolete. Instead, he advocated for a multipolar world order centered around the United Nations and a more balanced consideration of all countries’ interests. This perspective aligns with Russia’s broader geopolitical strategy and reflects the changing dynamics of global power.

Although trade between Russia and the GCC is relatively modest, at about $21 billion in 2023, there is considerable potential for growth. The two sides’ cooperation through OPEC+ and the Gas Exporting Countries Forum underscores the importance of their economic ties and highlights opportunities for further investment and trade.

Brazil’s relationship with the GCC dates back two decades, marked by agreements with MERCOSUR, Brazil’s dominant trade bloc. The first Arab-South American summit, convened by then-President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in 2005, set the stage for enhanced political and economic engagement between Brazil and the GCC. Lula’s return to power has reignited efforts to strengthen these ties, with a focus on boosting trade, investment, and cultural exchanges.

The expansion of direct shipping and air links between Brazil and the GCC countries has facilitated greater economic interaction. Additionally, Brazil’s involvement in regional issues such as maritime security aligns with the GCC’s priorities. The recent attacks by Houthis in the Red Sea have underscored the importance of maritime security for all parties involved.

Brazil and the GCC’s shared interests in maritime security and other global challenges highlight the depth of their cooperation. As Brazil seeks to enhance its engagement with the GCC, there is potential for further collaboration on political, economic, and cultural fronts.

The meetings in Riyadh underscore the GCC’s strategic balancing act in managing its relationships with major global powers. The GCC’s approach reflects a pragmatic and multi-faceted strategy, aimed at leveraging its economic and geopolitical position to enhance its influence and secure its interests.

The GCC’s interactions with China, India, Russia, and Brazil reveal its commitment to balancing partnerships and navigating a complex global landscape. The organization’s focus on energy cooperation, trade, investment, and security highlights its role as a key player in global geopolitics.

As the global order continues to shift, the GCC’s strategic engagements will play a crucial role in shaping regional and international dynamics. The recent high-level meetings in Riyadh illustrate the GCC’s growing significance on the world stage and its ability to maintain balanced relationships with major powers while advancing its strategic interests.

Riyadh’s hosting of high-level meetings with BRICS nations underscores the GCC’s adeptness at navigating the complexities of international relations. The interactions with China, India, Russia, and Brazil highlight the GCC’s strategic balancing act and its growing influence in a rapidly changing world. As these relationships continue to evolve, they will have significant implications for regional and global stability, shaping the future of international diplomacy.

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