Gulf States (Hansard, 10 March 1998)

HC Deb 10 March 1998 vol 308 cc137-8W 137W

§ 28. Mr. Spring
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement about relations between the UK and the Gulf states. [31826]

§ Mr. Fatchett
The Gulf is an area of key importance for both the EU and the UK, strategically, economically and commercially. The EU's 1988 Cooperation Agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council embodies the wide range of our shared interests. Britain has enjoyed138W friendly relations with the Gulf states for many years. We are therefore well-placed as EU Presidency to encourage greater cooperation and enhance relations.