Sir Keir Starmer is visiting the Gulf to strengthen economic and defense ties with the UAE and Saudi Arabia. This visit aims to bolster UK trade and investment while addressing human rights issues, including rising executions in Saudi Arabia. Starmer’s meetings with key leaders underscore the significance of these partnerships in promoting regional stability and mutual growth.
Sir Keir Starmer is embarking on his inaugural visit to theMiddle East as Prime Minister, aiming to strengthen economic and defense ties with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia. This endeavor is in keeping with the assertion from Number 10, which describes these nations as among Britain’s most vital, modern-day partners. Starmer plans to bolster UK trade and investment as well as deepen security cooperation during his engagements with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia.
The visit underscores the importance of trade relations, with the UAE contributing £23 billion and Saudi Arabia £17 billion to UK trade. Furthermore, the UK benefits from over 7,000 businesses exporting to Saudi Arabia, sustaining approximately 90,000 jobs throughout the nation. Additionally, Saudi Arabia stands as the UK’s largest defense export market, valued at £3.8 billion annually. Starmer’s discussions are also expected to address regional stability, particularly relating to the Israel-Hamas conflict and humanitarian aid for Gaza.
Human rights groups, including the organization Reprieve, urge Prime Minister Starmer to address Saudi Arabia’s alarming rise in executions, reportedly totaling 300 in 2024 alone. Reprieve’s deputy executive director, Dan Dolan, highlighted the urgency of bringing attention to this issue, contrasting it with past Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s approach during his visit to Saudi leadership following a significant mass execution. Following his Middle Eastern engagements, Starmer is scheduled to meet with Cyprus’s President Nikos Christodoulides on a subsequent visit to further strengthen diplomatic relations.
Sir Keir Starmer’s visit to the Gulf reflects a strategic intention to enhance the UK’s economic and defense collaborations with key Arab nations, particularly in light of ongoing global political challenges. The UAE and Saudi Arabia are pivotal partners for Britain, facilitating substantial trade and investment opportunities while also presenting complex human rights concerns. The current political landscape necessitates a balanced approach, wherein Starmer not only pursues trade but also advocates for human rights issues within these partnerships. His previous criticisms of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s dealings with Saudi Arabia highlight the sensitive nature of diplomatic relations in this region, especially concerning human rights practices.
In essence, Sir Keir Starmer’s visit to the Gulf represents a dual commitment to enhancing economic ties while advocating for human rights. His discussions will focus on trade, defense, and regional stability, with particular attention to the troubling rise in executions in Saudi Arabia. As he seeks to establish a network of international partners, Starmer is poised to navigate the complexities of these critical relationships, balancing economic growth with ethical considerations.
Original Source: news.sky.com
