Kuwait city: Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Albudaiwi affirmed that the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the GCC and the United Kingdom is a major strategic opportunity to elevate economic relations to new horizons. He stated that this agreement will open broader prospects for trade and investment, enhance market access, and create new pathways for growth, innovation, and prosperity for "our peoples".
According to Saudi Press Agency, this came during the joint meeting between the GCC and the UK, held today in Kuwait. The meeting was chaired by Minister of Commerce and Industry of Kuwait, president of the current session, Khalifa Abdullah Al-Ajeel, and attended by Minister of State for Trade at the Department for Business and Trade in the UK Chris Bryant, and the ministers of commerce from the GCC states.
The GCC secretary-general began his speech by welcoming everyone to "this important joint meeting" between the GCC and the UK, and expressed appreciation for the continuous efforts of both sides to advance "our joint economic partnership."
"The working teams from both sides have made remarkable progress throughout the previous rounds of negotiations, reflecting the strong commitment and constructive spirit shown by both parties," he stated.
Albudaiwi added, "We are pleased to note today that only a limited number of outstanding issues remain."
He concluded his speech by emphasising that the Gulf and British sides are confident in their mutual understanding and are capable of successfully bridging these remaining gaps to conclude an ambitious and balanced agreement. "This agreement will reflect the depth of our partnership and serve our mutual interests," he stressed.
He affirmed, "We are approaching today's discussions with a shared determination to reach successful negotiations that will lay the foundation for a stronger and more dynamic economic relationship between the GCC and the UK."