Saudi Arabia and United Kingdom Strengthen Strategic Partnership
Riyadh, The Gulf Observer: Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening economic and strategic ties, with the goal of increasing bilateral trade to $37.5 billion by 2030. This pledge was outlined in a joint statement issued at the conclusion of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s official visit to Saudi Arabia on December 9, 2024.
During his visit, Prime Minister Starmer was received by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at Al Yamamah Palace in Riyadh. The leaders held formal discussions under the framework of the Saudi-UK Strategic Partnership Council, emphasizing its pivotal role in fostering collaboration across economic, cultural, and security sectors.
Key Areas of Cooperation
Economic Growth and Investments
The leaders highlighted significant progress in enhancing bilateral relations, with a focus on emerging industries that drive global competitiveness, create jobs, and ensure sustainable growth.
- Trade Expansion: Both sides committed to increasing trade volume to $37.5 billion by 2030.
- Strategic Investments: Saudi investments in the UK, including the Public Investment Fund’s acquisitions, were celebrated. The UK announced plans to increase export finance exposure to $6 billion, building on previous collaborations such as Shariah-compliant financing for the Qiddiya project.
- Special Economic Zones: The launch of five Saudi economic zones was noted as an opportunity for British businesses to leverage incentives in strategic sectors.
Energy and Sustainability
Both nations emphasized collaboration in renewable energy and clean hydrogen.
- A Saudi-British Clean Hydrogen Alliance was announced, led by King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals and Newcastle University.
- Cooperation in clean technology, energy innovation, and green metals was also emphasized.
Education and Culture
The leaders agreed to expand British educational institutions in Saudi Arabia, including the establishment of British university branches and an increase in British schools to 10 by 2030.
- Cultural collaboration included partnerships between the Royal Commission for AlUla and the British Council to develop heritage and museum projects.
Healthcare and Defense
Plans were announced to establish a nursing college in Saudi Arabia in collaboration with British universities, alongside joint initiatives to address global health challenges.
- In defense, the nations pledged to deepen industrial cooperation, cybersecurity collaboration, and advanced weapons development.
Shared Regional and Global Goals
The leaders discussed key regional issues:
- Gaza: Both sides called for an immediate end to conflict, the release of hostages, and protection of civilians, aligning with UN Security Council resolutions.
- Yemen and Sudan: They reaffirmed support for peace processes and comprehensive political solutions.
- Ukraine: Saudi Arabia and the UK committed to fostering dialogue and securing a just and sustainable peace.
The UK reiterated its strong support for Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, recognizing its potential to drive economic transformation and bilateral cooperation. Enhanced connectivity through expanded air links and eased visa requirements was celebrated as a catalyst for increased cultural and economic exchanges.
A Future-Oriented Partnership
The statement concluded with optimism about the enduring partnership between Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom, emphasizing their shared vision for sustainable growth, mutual prosperity, and global security. The next Saudi-UK Strategic Partnership Council meeting is eagerly anticipated to continue building on this collaboration.
