“UK Business Secretary Optimistic about GCC-UK Free Trade Deal Progress”

The newly appointed British Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Kemi Badenoch, has expressed her excitement about the progress being made in negotiations for a Gulf Cooperation Council-UK free trade agreement. Badenoch made the comments during a five-day tour of GCC member states, which included meetings in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. She noted that the negotiations were complex due to the involvement of six countries with differing priorities. However, she expressed confidence that a mutually beneficial agreement could be reached. Badenoch also discussed the importance of building relationships and facilitating collaboration between international businesses and governments to drive economic growth. During her visit to Saudi Arabia, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Saudi Arabia and the UK on critical minerals to contribute to the clean energy transition.