London, October 21 (QNA) - Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi affirmed that the distinguished Gulf-British partnership is based on a long history of cooperation and mutual trust, and envisioned a promising future based on shared interests and convergent values.

This came in a speech delivered by Albudaiwi before a number of lords, senior officials, experts, and legislators in the British Parliament in London.

He underscored that the Gulf-British relations have evolved from traditional cooperation to a comprehensive partnership encompassing political coordination, security and defense cooperation, cultural exchange, and economic and investment partnerships.

In this context, Albudaiwi noted the strategic importance of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations between the GCC and the United Kingdom, which have reached advanced stages thanks to the common will of both parties.

He explained that the completion of this agreement will be a qualitative step toward opening broader horizons for trade, investment, and innovation, particularly in the fields of clean energy, modern technologies, and digital services.

It will also contribute to linking the ambitious development transformations in the GCC countries with the global economic capabilities of the United Kingdom.

He also emphasized that the Gulf-British partnership is not limited to economics alone, but is also a partnership of principles based on a commitment to dialogue, respect for international law, and joint action to achieve security and stability, combat extremism, and support peace and development around the world. It serves the common interests and achieves mutual prosperity for the two peoples. (QNA)