Sir Keir Starmer will visit the Gulf to enhance economic and defense ties with the UAE and Saudi Arabia, addressing significant trade relations while facing calls from human rights groups to discuss the execution crisis in Saudi Arabia, where 300 executions have occurred this year.
Sir Keir Starmer is set to embark on a diplomatic visit to the Persian Gulf today, with the intent of fortifying economic and defense relations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia. This marks his inaugural visit to the region as prime minister, during which he aims to attract investments to the United Kingdom and enhance security partnerships, as emphasized by Number 10. Following his arrival, Sir Keir will meet with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and, subsequently, engage in discussions with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
During this visit, human rights organizations, notably Reprieve, have urged Sir Keir to address the alarming rise in executions in Saudi Arabia, where 300 individuals have been executed this year alone, marking a record high. Sir Keir remarked, “Driving long-term growth at home requires us to strengthen partnerships abroad,” highlighting the necessity of fostering robust international ties to stimulate domestic economic growth.
Trade relations with the UAE and Saudi Arabia are substantial, with trade worth £23 billion and £17 billion, respectively. Over 7,000 UK businesses export to Saudi Arabia, supporting close to 90,000 jobs, while 14,000 UK firms exported to the UAE last year. Additionally, Saudi Arabia remains the UK’s largest market for defense exports, valued at £3.8 billion annually.
The stability of the Middle East, including the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza and the acceleration of humanitarian aid, will also be a primary focus of Sir Keir’s discussions. Following the Gulf visit, he will proceed to Cyprus for talks with President Nikos Christodoulides.
This diplomatic mission underscores the UK’s intention to solidify vital partnerships in the region while balancing economic interests with pressing human rights considerations. Sir Keir’s remarks reaffirm a commitment to nurturing beneficial international relationships that align with the United Kingdom’s broader goals of trade and security.
Sir Keir Starmer’s visit to the Gulf region is designed to bolster Britain’s economic and defense connections with key strategic partners, specifically the UAE and Saudi Arabia. As Prime Minister, this trip is pivotal for establishing long-term trade and security relationships, particularly amid concerns about rising human rights issues in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, the backdrop of regional instability, including the Israel-Hamas conflict, adds another layer to the visit’s significance, as the UK navigates its foreign policy priorities in a complex geopolitical landscape.
In summary, Sir Keir Starmer’s upcoming visit to the Gulf aims to strengthen vital economic and defense partnerships with the UAE and Saudi Arabia, emphasizing mutual benefits and international growth. However, the escalating human rights violations, particularly the rise in executions in Saudi Arabia, present a complex challenge that Sir Keir will need to address. His diplomatic engagements will not only impact UK-Middle East relations but will also reflect the UK’s commitment to balancing economic partnerships with ethical considerations in foreign policy.
Original Source: news.sky.com
