Keir Starmer calls out Boris Johnson for flattering dictators in the Gulf

Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, visited Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates on December 8, 2024, in his first trip to the Gulf since taking office. During his tour, he held discussions primarily focused on enhancing trade and investment opportunities between the UK and the oil-rich nations. His visit included meetings with notable leaders, including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed. While seeking to strengthen economic ties and encourage foreign investment, Starmer faced significant pressure from human rights advocates to address rising human rights concerns in Saudi Arabia, particularly the alarming rates of executions and the treatment of dissenters. Starmer's administration has expressed intentions to pursue a Free Trade Agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council, aiming to bolster bilateral trade that currently exceeds £70 billion annually. Despite acknowledging the importance of human rights discussions, Starmer emphasized that economic growth is the government's primary concern. This approach contrasts with his previous criticisms of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson's dealings with Middle Eastern leaders, where he accused Johnson of neglecting human rights in favor of maintaining diplomatic relations. Such criticisms underscore an evolving narrative surrounding the UK's foreign policy, as Starmer attempts to balance economic priorities with ethical considerations in his international relations. After meetings in the Gulf states, Starmer is expected to continue on to Cyprus for further diplomatic discussions, marking an important series of encounters intended to reinforce the UK's position on the world stage.