His Excellency Mr Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), alongside His Excellency Mr Chris Bryant, Minister of State for Trade at the UK Department for Business and Trade, signed today, Wednesday, May 20, 2026, in the British capital, London, the Joint Statement concluding the negotiations for the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the GCC and the United Kingdom (UK).
On this occasion, His Excellency Mr Albudaiwi delivered a speech stating that the signing of this Joint Statement to declare the successful conclusion of the FTA negotiations represents a qualitative leap in relations between both sides. "This step will contribute to cementing the economic pathways of both regions for generations to come," His Excellency stressed, noting that this moment was not a product of chance, but rather the fruit of years of tireless effort, firm political will, and an unwavering shared belief between the six GCC member states and the UK that deepening economic integration among our peoples and economies is indispensable.
His Excellency pointed out that this agreement contains a framework designed to achieve tangible, sustainable, and measurable economic benefits for businesses, investors, and citizens across all seven signatory economies. "The GCC-UK FTA as a comprehensive and modern trade accord spanning trade in goods and services, financial services, digital trade, investment protection, government procurement, telecommunications, and the movement of natural persons. Within each of these pillars, substantial and sector-specific commitments have been achieved, reflecting the level of maturity and ambition that characterises this economic relationship—an achievement of this magnitude that could not have been realised without the dedication of countless individuals who worked with professionalism, perseverance, and determination," His Excellency explained.
Furthermore, His Excellency the GCC Secretary General expressed his sincere appreciation and deep gratitude to the ministers, chief negotiators, and technical teams of the six GCC member states, whose guidance, commitment, and endeavours made the conclusion of this agreement possible.
He extended similar appreciation to the UK Minister of State for Trade and his esteemed team, whose constructive engagement and genuine spirit of partnership served as an indispensable pillar throughout the process.
He also commended the GCC General Secretariat’s team of negotiators and legal advisors, who worked with exceptional dedication across every chapter of these negotiations, stating that their efforts embody the General Secretariat's keenness to follow up on and execute the milestones of joint Gulf action.
