UK Set to Clinch Free Trade Agreement with GCC Nations This Week

According to Financial Times, on May 18, the UK is poised to finalize a long-awaited free trade agreement with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, sources said. The agreement will cover six GCC members—Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman—following negotiations that began in 2022. A source indicated the two sides will reach an agreement in principle within days, with GCC Secretary-General Jasem Budaiwi expected to visit London this week. UK officials confirmed negotiations are in their final stages.