British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will embark on his first visit to the Gulf region since assuming office, seeking to strengthen economic, defence, and security ties with the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
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Key Objectives of the Visit
- Economic Partnerships:
- Attract Investment: Starmer aims to secure Gulf investments to fund Britain’s infrastructure revitalization and clean energy transition.
- Free Trade Agreement: Push for progress on a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Free Trade Agreement, which could increase bilateral trade by 16% and add £8.6 billion annually in the long run.
- Defence and Security:
- Deepen defence collaborations with the Gulf monarchies, described as “vital modern-day partners.”
- Focus on Middle East stability, including calls for a ceasefire in Israel-Gaza, the release of hostages, and accelerated humanitarian aid to Gaza.
- Research and Innovation:
- Propose partnerships in research and development and future-focused projects to align with both regions’ long-term growth plans.
Itinerary Highlights
- United Arab Emirates (Dec 8-9):
- Talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi.
- Discussion of trade opportunities, including the £23 billion trade relationship between the two nations.
- Saudi Arabia (Dec 9-10):
- Meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh.
- Focus on expanding the £17 billion trade relationship and enhancing defence and energy partnerships.
- Cyprus (Dec 10):
- First British Prime Ministerial visit in over five decades.
- Discussions with President Nikos Christodoulides on shared security concerns in the region.
UK-Gulf Relations
- The Gulf monarchies are among Britain’s largest investors, and trade relations have grown significantly.
- Recent GCC-related developments:
- In September, UK trade ministers visited Gulf nations to advance trade negotiations.
- Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani visited Britain earlier this week, ending with a pledge to deepen investment ties.
Strategic Importance
- Economic Revitalization: Gulf investments could be pivotal in rebuilding Britain’s aging infrastructure and advancing clean energy objectives.
- Middle East Stability: A stable Gulf region is critical for global energy markets and the UK’s geopolitical interests.
- Global Trade Leadership: Securing a GCC trade deal would bolster Britain’s post-Brexit economic strategy and showcase its ability to forge meaningful international agreements.
Conclusion
Keir Starmer’s visit to the Gulf highlights the UK’s commitment to deepening its ties with key economic and strategic partners in the Middle East. By fostering collaborations in trade, defence, and innovation, the trip underscores Britain’s intent to play a proactive role in the region’s development while advancing its domestic economic agenda.
