Prime Minister Keir Starmer will visit the Gulf, focusing on strengthening economic and defense ties with the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Key discussions will address regional stability, investments, and trade agreements. His itinerary includes meetings with top leaders and follows a push for cooperation in various sectors, particularly related to infrastructure and energy.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to embark on his inaugural visit to the Gulf on Sunday, focusing on enhancing economic and defense partnerships with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia. This diplomatic mission, aimed at stimulating investment and strengthening security alliances, follows Starmer’s recent electoral victory in July, positioning the two nations as critical partners for the UK.
Starmer will commence his trip in the UAE, engaging in discussions with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, before traveling to Saudi Arabia to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The visit will prioritize stability in the Middle East, addressing urgent issues such as the call for a ceasefire between Israel and Gaza, the swift release of hostages, and the increase of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
During his visit, Starmer expressed confidence in the untapped potential of the Gulf region, stating his commitment to attract investment for the UK’s infrastructure improvements and energy transition initiatives. He emphasized the importance of advancing discussions surrounding the Gulf Cooperation Council Free Trade Agreement, enhancing research and development cooperation, and collaborating on future projects.
The UK government recognizes the significance of both monarchies as vital economic partners, noting substantial trade ties: the trade volume with the UAE is approximately 23 billion pounds ($29.3 billion), while trade with Saudi Arabia is estimated at 17 billion pounds. Prior British official visits to the region earlier this year sought to expedite negotiations on the free trade agreement, potentially boosting trade by 16% and generating an additional 8.6 billion pounds annually in the long run.
Furthermore, Starmer is scheduled to meet with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides on Tuesday, marking the first bilateral engagement of a British leader in Cyprus in over fifty years, aimed at fostering cooperative measures against shared security challenges in the region.
The relationship between the United Kingdom and the Gulf states, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia, is characterized by substantial economic and defense cooperation. With the UK being the sixth-largest economy globally, its government is keen on securing investments from these wealthy nations to rejuvenate its infrastructure and facilitate a transition towards cleaner energy. The ongoing discussions about a Free Trade Agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council indicate a strategic effort to deepen economic ties and enhance mutual benefits in trade and investment.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to the Gulf signifies a pivotal moment in reinforcing UK ties with key Middle Eastern partners. By prioritizing economic cooperation and addressing regional stability issues, Starmer aims to secure vital investments and foster collaborative projects that can drive progress and prosperity for both the UK and the Gulf states.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
