His Excellency Mr Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), met with Lord Anas Sarwar, the United Kingdom (UK) Minister of State for Trade, on Tuesday (October 20, 2026) in the British capital, London. The meeting was held on the sidelines of the GCC-UK Strategic Dialogue.
During the meeting, the two sides discussed the distinguished economic and trade relations between the GCC states and the UK, and reviewed the latest developments concerning the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two sides.
They also emphasised the importance of moving forward with completing the necessary procedures for the agreement to enter into force, in a manner that contributes to expanding economic cooperation, boosting trade and investment flows, and opening new avenues for bilateral partnership.
HE the Secretary General underscored that the GCC states attach great importance to cementing their economic ties with the UK, building on the historical links and the strategic partnership between the two sides. He highlighted their shared desire to further advance economic and trade cooperation, and capitalise on available opportunities and capabilities, serving common interests and supporting economic growth and prosperity for both sides.
