The office of British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced that he discussed enhancing relations between the two countries with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in a phone call today, Thursday, following media reports that an invitation had been extended to the Crown Prince to visit Britain. Sunak's office stated in a release that "the Prime Minister and the Crown Prince expressed their intention to continue working closely to enhance British-Saudi cooperation and look forward to holding an in-person meeting at the earliest opportunity."
It added: "The invitation to visit Britain this autumn is intended to help solidify a major trade agreement with the Gulf, in addition to the proposed free trade agreement following Britain's exit from the European Union with the Gulf Cooperation Council." Former British Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Sir William Patey, noted that the Kingdom's leadership in global policy was the main driver behind the invitation. He told the BBC: "Saudi Arabia's importance in the Gulf and the world has increased in terms of its significance to Britain as a security partner and a partner in counter-terrorism and trade."
"The National" commented on the invitation, stating that "shortly after the Russian invasion of Ukraine last year, former Prime Minister Boris Johnson had discussions with Prince Mohammed in Riyadh amid rising oil prices." The anticipated invitation for the autumn has been widely reported in British media, with "The Times" describing the potential visit as "of great significance, delayed in timing, but aimed at strengthening close defense ties, likely enhancing British exports to this vast market and reaffirming Britain's long-standing interest in the Middle East."
Saudi Arabia has strengthened its ties with Britain in recent years, particularly after the Public Investment Fund acquired "Newcastle United" in 2021. A spokesperson for Downing Street commented on today's conversation: "The leaders discussed their commitment to continue developing our trade and investment relationship, including through cooperation in new advanced industries and strengthening our close cooperation in defense and security. The Prime Minister reiterated the United Kingdom's long-standing commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia's security and regional stability."
