EU Considers Schengen Visa Waiver For Kuwaiti And Qatari Citizens

Amid discussions surrounding a potential European plan to waive the Schengen visa requirement for citizens of Gulf states, the European Union's Arabic spokesperson for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), Luis Miguel Bueno, provided insights in a statement to Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper. Bueno stated, "The European Commission has proposed exempting Kuwaiti and Qatari citizens from the Schengen visa requirement starting in 2022."

However, Bueno emphasized that while the proposal is on the negotiating table, it necessitates discussions within the European Union (EU), involving member states and the European Parliament. He highlighted the complexity of the process, noting upcoming elections in June and the requisite involvement of the Council of the European Union.

Despite the desire of the European Commission to progress with exempting citizens from these two Gulf countries, Bueno cautioned that the outcome of discussions may not be swift. He underscored that deliberations must occur before any definitive action is taken, potentially impacting the timing of such a decision.

Regarding the upcoming visit of the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Jassim Al-Budaiwi, to Brussels, Bueno confirmed that discussions would encompass various matters, including the exemption of Gulf Cooperation Council citizens from the Schengen Visa requirement.

Collectively, the Gulf States constitute the eighth-largest economy globally, with an estimated annual growth of approximately 6% and a gross domestic product of $2.4 trillion.

Comments Post Comment

Leave a Comment

Submit