London: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed the free trade agreement between the United Kingdom and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, describing it as a major boost to the British economy, jobs, and investment.

According to Qatar News Agency, Starmer stated that the agreement is a significant victory for British businesses and will benefit working people with higher wages and more job opportunities in the years ahead. He highlighted that the British government has successfully secured five major trade deals with international partners, fulfilling its promise to drive growth, support jobs, and strengthen the UK economy.

Starmer underscored the importance of Gulf states as valued economic partners for the United Kingdom. He noted that the agreement deepens this relationship, fostering trust and unlocking new opportunities for trade and investment between the two regions.

The deal is projected to contribute £3.7 billion to the UK economy annually in the long run, relative to 2040 projections, and is expected to generate £1.9 billion in real wages. This development is anticipated to benefit businesses and working individuals across the country.

The British government asserted that being the first G7 nation to finalize a trade deal with the GCC positions the UK to enhance its economic partnership with the region, support long-term job growth, and strengthen domestic economic resilience. The government emphasized that the agreement epitomizes the commitment of the UK and its Gulf partners to open trade, mutual prosperity, and sustainable economic success.