Labour Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has embarked on a crucial diplomatic mission to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, pursuing a potentially transformative trade deal with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) worth billions of pounds to the British economy.
The strategic visit comes at a pivotal moment for UK-Gulf relations, with trade between Britain and the UAE currently valued at £23 billion, while Saudi Arabian commerce stands at £17 billion. The proposed free trade agreement with the six-nation GCC bloc could boost the UK economy by approximately £1.6 billion annually, according to Labour party estimates.
British business interests in the region are already substantial, with over 7,000 UK companies exporting to Saudi Arabia and 14,000 to the UAE. The defence sector particularly benefits from these relationships, with Saudi Arabia representing Britain’s largest defence export market, generating roughly £3.8 billion yearly for companies like BAE Systems.
The timing of Starmer’s visit is significant, following the previous Conservative government’s groundwork in trade negotiations. The talks, temporarily suspended during the UK elections, have resumed with renewed vigour under Labour’s leadership. Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and Trade Policy Minister Douglas Alexander have prioritised Gulf relations, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to securing this lucrative agreement.
Recent developments show promising signs of economic cooperation, exemplified by Graphene Innovations Manchester’s establishment of the first commercial graphene-enriched carbon fibre production facility in Saudi Arabia. This venture aims to generate £250 million of investment into Greater Manchester, creating over a thousand skilled positions.
While human rights concerns persist, the government has adopted a pragmatic approach, acknowledging Saudi Arabia’s recent reforms while maintaining diplomatic pressure through private channels. The strategic importance of Gulf investment in British assets, including potential stakes in Heathrow Airport and existing investments in Selfridges, underscores the economic significance of these relationships
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