UK PM Keir Starmer Seeks Stronger Economic and Defense Ties with UAE and Saudi Arabia
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has begun his first multi-day visit to the Gulf region since taking office. His goal is to strengthen economic, defense, and security partnerships with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia, two of the UK’s most important modern-day partners, according to a government statement.
Starmer arrived in the UAE yesterday and is set to meet UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan today. Later, he will travel to Saudi Arabia to hold talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The visit aims to boost investment and push for progress on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Free Trade Agreement. Starmer also seeks to attract investment from wealthy Gulf nations to modernize UK infrastructure and support the clean energy shift.
Rebuilding ties with the UAE is a key focus, following strained relations under the previous UK government over a failed Abu Dhabi-backed bid to buy the Telegraph newspaper. Starmer stressed the importance of Middle East stability, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and faster delivery of humanitarian aid.
