Islamabad, February 16, 2026: The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), through its Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East and Africa (CAMEA), organized a Distinguished Lecture titled “Rethinking Europe’s Middle East Policy: Balancing Interests and Values.” Dr. Flavius Caba Maria, President of the Middle East Political and Economic Institute (MEPEI), Romania, was the keynote speaker.
Dr. Amina Khan, Director CAMEA, highlighted three EU policy priorities: engagement with the Gulf, evolving Israel–Palestine dynamics amid the Gaza war, and managing relations with Iran. Dr. Maria emphasized the EU’s cautious, legally anchored approach, reinforcing UN frameworks and a two-state solution while noting regional challenges in the West Bank. He also discussed EU–GCC strategic cooperation, trade, technology exchange, and sustainable energy as key pillars, while pointing out strained EU-Iran relations, JCPOA implications, and the impact of shifting geopolitics.
Ambassador Khalid Mahmood noted that Europe balances human rights, humanitarian principles, and regional strategic interests. The session was attended by diplomats, academics, students, practitioners, and civil society members, concluding with an engaging Q&A session.
