German-GCC dialogue in Berlin explores pathways for stronger ties

Arab News

08-07-2025

What does the future hold for German-GCC relations, and how can cultural cooperation and policy dialogue further strengthen ties? This question was debated during the seventh annual German-Arab Gulf Dialogue on Security and Cooperation in Berlin on June 23 and 24.
The forum was jointly hosted by the German-Arab Friendship Association, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, and The Diwan Kuwait. Under the honorary chairmanship of Prince Turki Al-Faisal, the two-day event brought together leading representatives from the Gulf and Germany for in-depth dialogue and exchange.
During our cultural diplomacy roundtable, I highlighted the urgent need to nurture collaboration through culture — a bridge that endures even when official dialogue stalls.
The discussion began by acknowledging the long-standing historical ties between Germany and the Gulf, dating back to the mid-20th century. The Gulf's own international cultural initiatives, such as the Arab Cultural House in Berlin, demonstrate the region's commitment to intercultural dialogue.
Sports and artistic exchanges were also cited as successful examples of recent German-Arab collaborations. Another notable example is the newly announced partnership between the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation and Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture, focusing on long-term cooperation in the museum sector.
Yet, as discussed at the roundtable, cultural policy often remains absent from most European high-level agendas, overshadowed by immediate security and economic concerns.
Recent funding cuts in Germany and other European nations signal growing concern for the cultural sector, taking a toll on cross-border cooperation. This was evident in the tone of the speeches at the forum, which highlighted the urgency of concrete actions ranging from institutional partnerships to community engagement.
"The essence of cultural diplomacy is the creation of a shared zone or meta-space for human contact and cultural exchange.'
A recurring theme from our discussion was education, which is a key tool for developing intercultural competences. The conversation also turned to the role of media, both traditional and digital, in shaping cultural perceptions.
Modern cultural diplomacy often intersects with digital diplomacy. In Germany, social media is a primary source of news, influencing how the Gulf states are viewed and vice versa. These platforms have become a reflection of modern society's collective mindset.
The essence of cultural diplomacy is the creation of a shared zone or meta-space for human contact and cultural exchange. But I believe there is still a limited understanding of how the digital environment can strategically foster mutual trust and long-term relationships.
While some strategies emphasize the need for macro-level initiatives, others promote micro-level activities to build mutual respect and coexistence, reflecting the diverse pathways to promoting intercultural understanding. The role of cultural knowledge, including knowledge of certain values and norms, helps to facilitate successful communication.
This might call for the creation of a unified cultural curriculum that is co-developed between nations and taught in schools — a curriculum that emphasizes language learning, intercultural understanding, and shared human values such as tolerance and moderation.
It would offer an inclusive tool and space for nations to tell their stories and share their history.
Reflecting on the forum, several topics emerged that are particularly relevant to current global affairs, including youth empowerment and environmental sustainability. As a way forward, it is critical that we push for multi-stakeholder partnerships to bring together diverse expertise and resources to build stronger links between nations.
What resonated throughout this forum, and was unanimously agreed upon during our roundtable, is that governments play a crucial role in this process. By investing in research and supporting institutions that encourage constructive dialogue and mutual learning, they can help shape a more connected and empathetic global community.
This could include making strategic use of public-private partnerships and multilateral initiatives. Through these aligned efforts, Germany and the Gulf nations can strengthen their cultural ties and promote impactful, long-term collaboration.
• Dr. Ghadah W. Alharthi is an international cultural adviser and an associate professor specializing in culture and innovation at Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London. X: @ GhadahWA