Prime Minister’s Key Discussion with UAE President Scheduled for 26 July 2026

During a conversation yesterday with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, the Prime Minister expressed his gratitude for the significant investments made by the UAE in Manchester, highlighting the profound impact these investments have had on the city.

Advancing Technological Collaboration

The discussion between the two leaders extended to their shared aspirations for enhancing collaboration in technology and artificial intelligence. The Prime Minister emphasised the critical need to leverage cutting-edge technology as a means to stimulate growth and create opportunities. He noted that this commitment to innovation was a key factor behind his decision to appoint a dedicated Minister for AI within his cabinet.

Concerns Over Middle Eastern Stability

As the dialogue shifted towards the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the Prime Minister voiced his serious concerns regarding the repeated Iranian assaults on Gulf nations. He expressed his appreciation for the protective measures undertaken by the UAE to safeguard British citizens residing within its borders. Furthermore, he acknowledged and commended His Highness for his relentless efforts to facilitate negotiations between the United States and Iran, recognising the importance of diplomatic resolutions in the region.

Strengthening Bilateral Trade

In matters of trade, the Prime Minister articulated his ambition to bolster economic relations between the UK and the UAE. He expressed a strong desire to enhance trade ties, which he believes will not only drive economic growth but also generate employment opportunities across every region of the UK. The leaders concluded their conversation on a positive note, looking forward to future discussions aimed at furthering their collaborative efforts.