Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
Keir Starmer, the British Prime Minister, is poised to embark on a critical investment trip to Saudi Arabia next month, amid growing calls from Labour Party members to address the kingdom’s dismal human rights situation. With plans to engage with sovereign wealth funds, notably the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), these members urge Starmer to shine a light on egregious abuses tied to the fund, like the brutal slaying of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
Labour MP Clive Lewis insists that Starmer must not shy away from confronting Saudi Arabia on vital issues such as its internal human rights record, the ongoing conflict in Yemen, and the management of its vast oil resources. His colleague, John McDonnell, a former shadow chancellor, echoes this, highlighting the importance of maintaining economic relations while firmly advocating for human rights internationally, particularly in the face of blatant abuses in Yemen.
Starmer’s stance on Saudi Arabia has significantly evolved over the years. As an opposition MP in 2016, he supported ending military aid to the kingdom and voiced strong concerns against arms sales during his leadership campaign. However, his tone appeared to soften lately, raising worries among his critics about his commitment to human rights as he seeks to cultivate diplomatic and economic ties.
In January, Starmer controversially backed Conservative-led military actions against Houthi rebels, seemingly aligning himself with a more aggressive stance towards regional security. His trip aims to solidify Britain’s presence in the Gulf, marked by a complex dance between investment and ethical diplomacy, as the PIF continues to be scrutinized for its association with severe human rights violations.
A recent Human Rights Watch report linked the PIF, overseen by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to various human rights abuses, including the infamous Khashoggi murder, which underscored the brutal reality of Saudi politics. The PIF’s substantial investments in the UK, such as a notable stake in Selfridges and ownership of Newcastle United, further complicate Starmer’s mission as expectations rise for his engagement to be informed by a robust human rights agenda.
The complex relationship between the UK and Saudi Arabia has been marked by a delicate balance of lucrative investments and pressing moral responsibilities regarding human rights. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s upcoming trip is set against a backdrop of intense scrutiny from his party regarding Saudi Arabia’s actions, particularly in Yemen and concerning dissidents like Jamal Khashoggi. As he seeks investment for the UK, the onus is on Starmer to navigate these waters carefully, respecting both economic interests and fundamental human rights principles.
Starmer’s impending visit to Saudi Arabia represents a critical junction for UK foreign policy, as he grapples with the dual pressures of fostering economic ties while addressing serious human rights concerns. The calls from Labour party members emphasize the need for a principled approach in international relations, ensuring that investment does not come at the expense of fundamental rights. As scrutiny mounts, the eyes of the world will be on Starmer to see how he balances these challenges during his diplomatic overtures.
