UAE's ambassador to Britain says Cepa deal could boost bilateral trade and ties

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham held a series of high-level discussions with leaders from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait, focusing on the implications of the ongoing US-Iran war and opportunities for increased investment and cooperation. The calls took place shortly after Burnham assumed office, underscoring the immediate priorities of his administration. During the conversations, Burnham expressed support for the Gulf states amid the escalating tensions and emphasized the need for stronger defense ties and economic collaboration. Burnham spoke to the rulers of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait on Sunday evening, highlighting the impact of the war on energy prices and household costs in the UK. He condemned the Iranian attacks on Gulf allies and sought to reinforce defense partnerships while promoting investment in the UK. The discussions were framed within the context of broader diplomatic and economic goals, with a particular emphasis on technological and artificial intelligence cooperation. During the conversation with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed, the two leaders reviewed efforts to enhance longstanding ties between their nations. The dialogue included plans to increase collaboration on technology and AI, according to a Downing Street spokesperson. Burnham also praised the UAE’s long-standing investment strategy in Manchester, noting its significant impact on the city’s development. As mayor of Manchester, Burnham had overseen the implementation of these investments, and he reiterated the importance of strengthening trade relations between the two countries. Burnham acknowledged the UAE’s support for approximately 200,000 British citizens residing there and its role in facilitating US-Iran negotiations. This recognition reflected the broader UK commitment to maintaining stability in the region and ensuring the safety of its nationals abroad. The UK’s involvement in regional self-defense operations, initiated under his predecessor Keir Starmer, continued under Burnham, with him expressing approval for the decisions made by the previous government. In his talks with Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim, Burnham highlighted the success of the Joint Typhoon Squadron in supporting Qatar’s defense during the conflict. He expressed interest in expanding the defense partnership between the UK and Qatar. Similarly, during his call with Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Meshal, Burnham condemned the recent Iranian strikes on Kuwait and pledged the UK’s full support against the hostility. The UK has permitted the US military to use its bases in the Gulf to defend allies under Iranian attack, a policy that Burnham endorsed. Discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman focused on the appointment of Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth as the UK’s defence envoy to Saudi Arabia. Smyth, previously the UK's Air and Space Commander, has experience overseeing global RAF operations, making him a key figure in enhancing defense coordination with Saudi Arabia. With Saudi Arabia facing attacks from the Iran-backed Houthi militia, Burnham underscored the need for collaborative defense strategies. A Franco-British naval assistance mission for the Strait of Hormuz, supported by multiple nations, requires a durable ceasefire to proceed. Hamish Falconer, the Minister for Intergovernmental Relations and European Relations, stated that such efforts would be conducted on a defensive basis, aimed at ensuring safe passage for global shipping rather than engaging in the broader conflict. UAE Ambassador to Britain Mansoor Abulhoul emphasized the potential for further strengthening the UK-UAE relationship, particularly through a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (Cepa). He pointed to the existing strong foundations of trade, investment, and people-to-people connections, including the UK-GCC Free Trade Agreement signed earlier this year. Abulhoul highlighted the significance of the UAE’s long-term investment in Manchester, where Burnham played a pivotal role as mayor, and stressed the mutual benefits of continued collaboration in emerging fields like AI and technology. Abulhoul also noted the positive legacy of the Labour government under Keir Starmer, which maintained close ties with the UAE and supported its strategic urban redevelopment initiatives in Manchester. These include projects such as the Etihad Campus, Coop Live, and the Ancoats redevelopment, all of which reflect the UAE’s substantial contribution to the city’s transformation. The UAE’s investment in the UK has exceeded initial commitments, with estimates suggesting that UAE investments have created around 200,000 jobs in the UK.