Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has arrived at the G20 summit in Johannesburg, using the global stage to champion support for Ukraine and secure a series of major business deals for the UK worth hundreds of millions of pounds.
Diplomatic Push for Ukraine
Amid concerns over a US-backed peace plan reportedly involving territorial concessions from Kyiv, Sir Keir joined a call with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to speak directly with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The leaders used the opportunity to reiterate their unwavering belief in Ukraine's right to self-determination. Sir Keir later told reporters in Johannesburg that it was a "really important" principle that all matters concerning Ukraine must be decided by Ukraine itself.
Major Business Deals Announced
Alongside the diplomatic efforts, the Prime Minister announced a package of commercial agreements estimated to be worth over £400 million. The deals span various sectors, demonstrating the UK's broad export capabilities. Key announcements include a new partnership where Government-owned Crossrail International will advise on investment in South Africa's railways. Other significant contracts involve British Steel securing a £35 million deal for Turkey's high-speed network and Rolls-Royce providing new jet engines for 10 Air Algerie aircraft as part of a £370 million package.
Further agreements include a new UK-South Africa mutual recognition arrangement expected to boost British exports by up to £700 million over five years, and defence firm Babcock winning an initial contract to assess and help maintain South African navy submarines.
Navigating a Volatile Global Landscape
The summit, held from November 22-23 and the first to take place on African soil, occurs against a complex geopolitical backdrop. It has been notably overshadowed by the absence of several major world leaders, including US President Donald Trump, Russia's Vladimir Putin, and China's Xi Jinping. The US boycott was reportedly over controversial claims about the persecution of white people in South Africa.
Defending his decision to attend the summit just days before a crucial Budget expected to raise taxes, Sir Keir emphasised the direct benefits for the UK. He stated that the focus of the Budget would be on the economy and cost of living, and that the deals secured internationally would have a direct impact at home. A Downing Street spokesman echoed this, stating that the Prime Minister's overseas engagements are always focused on the priorities of people in the UK.
Sir Keir also addressed his approach to China, whose Premier Li Qiang is attending in President Xi's place. He reaffirmed a policy of "co-operate where we can and challenge where we must," pledging to "robustly" protect the UK's national interests amidst speculation of a potential visit to Beijing early next year.
