Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has emphasised the importance of international cooperation as he prepares to attend the G20 summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, where he aims to secure significant trade agreements worth approximately £400 million for British industries.
Global Gathering Amid Notable Absences
The November 22-23 leaders' summit, marking the first G20 meeting hosted on African soil, faces potential overshadowing by the absence of several key world leaders. Most notably, US President Donald Trump has boycotted the event following controversial claims about persecution of white people in South Africa that have been widely rejected by the international community.
However, in a potential diplomatic breakthrough, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa revealed on Thursday that discussions were underway regarding possible US participation, suggesting a potential change of heart from the American administration.
Chinese President Xi Jinping will also skip the multilateral forum, with Premier Li Qiang attending in his place. When questioned about potential meetings with Chinese representatives, Sir Keir declined to provide specifics but reiterated the government's position of "co-operate where we can and challenge where we must, particularly on national security".
UK's Economic Focus and Trade Ambitions
The Prime Minister's attendance comes at a crucial moment for the UK economy, with a significant Budget announcement expected to introduce tax rises in the coming days. Sir Keir stressed the direct connection between international engagement and domestic prosperity, highlighting that 200,000 UK jobs have been generated from G20 countries over the past three years.
Speaking to journalists accompanying him on the trip, Sir Keir stated: "I think it's really important to be there and to talk to other partners and allies so we can get on with the discussions around global issues that have to be addressed and do have an impact back at home."
He further emphasised his commitment to "take the opportunity face to face to further the deals that I want to do for our country", with the cost of living and economic stability remaining central priorities.
Substantial Trade Agreements Announced
Number 10 has confirmed several major deals totalling around £400 million across various sectors:
- Government-owned Crossrail International will advise on driving investment in South Africa's railways
- A new UK-Vietnam partnership to support digital modernisation of Vietnam's railway system
- British Steel securing a £35 million contract to supply products for Turkey's high-speed network
- Rolls-Royce supplying new jet engines for 10 Air Algerie aircraft as part of a £370 million air deals package with Algeria
- Babcock winning an initial contract to assess and help maintain South African navy submarines
- A new UK-South Africa mutual recognition arrangement expected to boost exports by up to £700 million over five years
The Prime Minister will visit a train depot featuring Derby-built trains on Friday to announce the railway investment advisory deal, underscoring the government's commitment to British manufacturing expertise.
When questioned about striking deals with African nations that maintain ties to Russia, Sir Keir maintained that "we're allies with South Africa and of course I want to get deals with South Africa and other countries over the line", indicating a pragmatic approach to international trade relationships.
The gathering represents a significant opportunity for the UK to strengthen economic ties with Indo-Pacific and African nations, with South Africa currently holding the rotating G20 presidency before handing over to the United States at year's end.
