LONDON: Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Al-Budaiwi affirmed that the distinguished Gulf-British partnership is rooted in a long history of cooperation and mutual trust, expressing confidence in a promising future built on common interests and shared values. Al-Budaiwi made the remarks during his address before members of the British Parliament, including Lords, senior officials, experts and legislators in London. He extended his sincere appreciation to Lord McNicol, Member of the House of Lords and the UK’s Trade Envoy to Jordan, Kuwait and the Palestinian Territories, for the invitation and warm reception. He also lauded Lord McNicol’s efforts in promoting stronger ties between the GCC and the United Kingdom.
The GCC chief underscored that relations between the two sides have evolved from traditional cooperation to a comprehensive partnership encompassing political coordination, security and defense cooperation, cultural exchange, and robust economic and investment ties. He highlighted the strategic importance of the ongoing Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations between the GCC and the UK, noting that talks have reached advanced stages thanks to the shared determination of both parties.
Al-Budaiwi said that finalizing the FTA would represent a significant milestone in broadening horizons for trade, investment, and innovation — particularly in the fields of clean energy, modern technology and digital services. “It will also link the ambitious developmental transformations in GCC countries with the global economic strengths of the United Kingdom,” he noted.
He further emphasized that the Gulf-British partnership extends beyond economic cooperation, describing it as a partnership grounded in principles of dialogue, respect for international law, and joint action to promote security, stability, and peace while combating extremism and supporting global development. “It serves common interests and achieves mutual prosperity for the peoples of the Gulf and Britain,” Al-Budaiwi concluded.
On the sidelines of his visit, Al-Budaiwi met with UK Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa Hamish Falconer. The two officials discussed GCC-UK relations within the framework of the strategic partnership and ways to further enhance cooperation to serve shared interests. They also reviewed the progress of the FTA negotiations, a new joint action plan, and the latest regional and international developments, particularly the situation in the Gaza Strip.
Al-Budaiwi also held talks with UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Peter Kyle and Minister of State for Trade Affairs Chris Bryant, during which they discussed the latest updates on the GCC-UK FTA negotiations. The GCC Secretary General stressed the importance of intensifying joint efforts and bridging remaining gaps in the negotiation process, emphasizing that the agreement would significantly strengthen trade and economic relations and open new avenues for cooperation in multiple sectors. — KUNA
