UK PM Keir Starmer Prioritizes Economic Growth in Saudi Arabia Visit

Starmer defends strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia while facing calls to address human rights concerns and the Khashoggi case.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized economic growth as his top priority during talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh.
The UK and Saudi Arabia agreed on a new defense partnership focusing on combat air capabilities, alongside discussions on expanding trade and investment ties.
Starmer highlighted recent deals with Saudi Arabia that have created 4,000 UK jobs and announced further collaboration in sectors like graphene innovation.
Human rights advocates and Jamal Khashoggi's widow urged Starmer to address Saudi Arabia's human rights record, including cases of child defendants facing the death penalty.
Downing Street stated that human rights issues would not be ignored, but economic priorities remain central to the UK government's international strategy.