Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi met with UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds today. The GCC chief remarks that the FTA negotiations are progressing with the goal to sign the agreement this year.
Tom Wills, Director of the Trade Justice Movement said:
"It is disappointing to hear the Labour Government is continuing talks with a region that is committing human rights violations. Labour has pledged to develop a new trade strategy and instead of negotiating with politically repressive regimes, it should align its trade policies with the UK's commitments to labour rights, human rights, and environmental standards. Pursuing a deal with the Gulf Cooperation Council utterly discredits the UK's position on these vital issues and these talks should be halted.
“Moreover, the GCC has shown little engagement with international climate change efforts. Future UK FTAs must prioritise climate goals, which is challenging with the fossil fuel-dependent economies of the GCC. To lead on climate change, the UK should seek ambitious trading partners, not those contributing to the problem."
