London — Britain has extended an official invitation to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for a visit later this year, according to a UK government official. The invitation comes as both countries aim to deepen their cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, defense, and security.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak engaged in a conversation with the crown prince earlier on Thursday, where they discussed various aspects of bilateral collaboration. A readout of the call issued by Downing Street highlighted their focus on progressing UK-Saudi cooperation and their anticipation of an in-person meeting at the earliest opportunity.
While specific dates for the visit have not yet been determined, both leaders have expressed their commitment to working closely together. The invitation comes at a time when the United Kingdom, along with other European nations, seeks to diversify their energy sources following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. They are particularly interested in leveraging Saudi Arabia’s ambitious plans to invest hundreds of billions of dollars in diversifying its economy away from oil.
Aside from economic considerations, Britain is one of the primary suppliers of arms to Saudi Arabia, and the kingdom has made notable investments in the UK. Among these investments is the purchase of Premier League soccer club Newcastle United by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund.
This visit will mark another significant interaction between Britain and Saudi Arabia. Last year, then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson held talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, highlighting the importance both countries place on their bilateral relationship.
The invitation from the UK is part of a broader effort by Western nations to recalibrate their relations with Saudi Arabia. French President Emmanuel Macron hosted Crown Prince Mohammed in Paris in June. Additionally, US President Joe Biden met with the crown prince, during a trip to the Middle East last year, signaling a departure from his campaign pledge to isolate Saudi Arabia.
As the visit of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Britain approaches, both countries anticipate further cooperation and engagement, with an emphasis on strengthening their partnership in various spheres to address mutual challenges and leverage opportunities for growth and development.
