Tag: Foreign Office

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 16 October 2023.

UK to highlight the growing UK-Albania partnership which has helped to decrease small boats crossings by Albanian nationals by 90% on last year.

• UK to highlight the growing UK-Albania partnership which has helped to drive down small boats crossings by Albanian nationals by 90% on last year
• trip will also underline the UK’s commitment to protecting stability in the Western Balkans during Summit of regional leaders
• Foreign Secretary to set out UK’s unique offer to the region as a key partner in upholding its prosperity and security

The Foreign Secretary, James Cleverly, will attend a Summit of Western Balkan and European leaders today in Albania (16 October) to urge them to preserve peace and stability amidst a growing number of tensions across the region.

Cleverly will look to build on the success of the UK’s partnership with Albania and seek increased cooperation across the Western Balkans region to tackle the drivers of illegal migration.

Close collaboration between the 2 countries has seen Channel crossings by Albanian nationals fall by 90% since the signing of the Joint Communiqué in December and a significant increase in the return of illegal migrants to Albania.

His attendance at the annual Berlin Process Summit in Tirana follows the deployment of 600 UK troops in Kosovo to bolster NATO’s peacekeeping mission in response to a build-up of military along the Serbia-Kosovo border and violent attacks against Kosovan police.

Ahead of his visit, Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said:

The UK is committed to working with the Western Balkans to tackle gangs who exploit lives for profit, as well as addressing the wider security challenges across the region.

Our partnership with Albania is doing just that. Through increased law enforcement cooperation, we have driven down small boats arrivals by Albanians by 90% on last year, and are returning those who have no legal right to remain in the UK.

The UK will always be a reliable partner standing side-by-side with the region to promote a prosperous and stable future.

The Foreign Secretary will highlight the UK’s unique role in supporting the region’s prosperity and security, from bolstering resilience against malign activity, interference and cyberattacks, to economic development and working alongside partners to tackle corruption and serious organised crime.

The Foreign Secretary will also use the Summit – attended by senior government representatives from across the Western Balkans and wider Europe – to galvanise international partners to remain steadfast in their solidarity with Israel and its fundamental right to defend itself against Hamas.

While in Tirana, James Cleverly will boost the UK’s ties with Albania. He will build on the Joint Communiqué agreed between Prime Ministers Rishi Sunak and Edi Rama in December 2022. The Communiqué set out new areas of collaboration on law enforcement and returns of those arriving illegally in the UK, as well as strengthening economic development.

At Tirana International Airport, the Foreign Secretary, alongside the Albanian Interior Minister, will formally open the Police Command Centre, which houses the UK-Albania Joint Migration Taskforce responsible for coordinating operational measures and actions to tackle people smugglers and traffickers facilitating illegal migrants from Albania to the UK.

To enhance trading ties between the UK and Albania, the Foreign Secretary will launch the British Chamber of Commerce in the country. The Chamber, which will help grow the economies of both countries, will be launched at an event at the Western Balkans University, a higher education institution that is developing partnerships with British Universities and providing scholarships for those under pressure to migrate from northern Albania.

Background

• the Berlin Process was set-up in 2014 to as a platform to promote high-level cooperation between countries in the Western Balkans
• since the signing of the Joint Communiqué in December 2022, arrivals of Albanian nationals to the UK on small boats has dropped from over 12,000 to under 1,000
• over 3,500 people who had no right to remain in the UK have been returned to Albania in the same period

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 14 October 2023.

A Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office spokesperson statement on Russia’s decision to source arms from North Korea for its illegal war in Ukraine.

A Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office spokesperson said:

The UK strongly condemns Russia’s decision to source arms from North Korea for its illegal war. We urge North Korea to cease its arms supply to Russia and abide by its public commitments to not sell arms to Russia.

Russia’s sourcing of weapons from North Korea violates UN Security Council resolutions – including resolutions Russia itself voted for, and highlights Putin’s desperation and isolation on the global stage.

The transfer of money, military equipment or technology bolstering North Korea’s own illegal weapons programmes would significantly undermine the UN’s long standing commitment to security, and further destabilise the region. A better armed North Korea is not in the interests of its neighbours, the region and the world.

North Korea is subject to a robust sanctions regime, and we will continue to work with our partners to ensure that North Korea pays a high price for supporting Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 14 October 2023.

The first UK government facilitated flights arrive in the UK and Cyprus.

• first UK government facilitated flights arrive in the UK and Cyprus with another successfully departing Israel on Saturday afternoon
• further government flights are planned with specialist teams deployed to support vulnerable British nationals
• British nationals in Gaza told to be ready if the Rafah crossing opens

Three UK government facilitated flights have now departed Israel for the UK and Cyprus, with more expected in the coming hours.

Two UK government Rapid Deployment Teams (RDT) and British Red Cross responders have also been deployed to support vulnerable British nationals wanting to leave on the flights.

The UK is also working with Israeli air controllers and the air industry to try to maintain commercial air links and keep a range of transport options under review. While commercial flights remain limited, a small number of routes between Israel and Europe, including the UK, are open.

Earlier this week, the government advised British nationals in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including Gaza, to register their presence with the Foreign Office to receive the latest updates on departure options and updates on the security situation.

The FCDO continues to advise against all travel to parts of Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and to advise against all but essential travel to all other parts.

James Cleverly, the Foreign Secretary, said:

The UK is committed to supporting British nationals in Israel and Gaza following this brutal terror attack by Hamas.

The safety of all British nationals is our priority and we urge everyone to continue to follow our advice and register their presence so we can get in touch.

In addition to arranging flights from Israel, officials are working with the Egyptian authorities to facilitate British and dual nationals, and their spouses and children, leaving Gaza via Rafah. The Prime Minister spoke to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi this week about the situation at the Rafah border crossing, while the Foreign Secretary is in contact with his Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry.

The Israeli military announced on the morning of 13 October that the entire population of Gaza north of Wadi Gaza should relocate to southern Gaza within the next 24 hours. British nationals in Gaza should follow this advice and have been messaged by the FCDO to ensure they are on alert to be ready if the crossing opens.

The UK continues to call for unimpeded humanitarian access to civilian populations. Vital humanitarian supplies, including food, water and medical supplies necessary for survival must be able to reach innocent civilians.

Earlier this week, the Ministry of Defence deployed a significant support package to the region, including RAF surveillance aircraft and 2 Royal Navy ships, to support regional stability and help prevent escalation.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 13 October 2023.

Deputy Ambassador Deirdre Brown reiterates UK support for OSCE’s Human Dimension institutions and commitments.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 13 October 2023.

The focus is on climate and technology cooperation as UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific Anne-Marie Trevelyan visits India.

• Minister for the Indo-Pacific will unveil UK-India tech initiative in Chennai in boost to environmental collaboration
• Anne-Marie Trevelyan will launch new smart tech project and visit ocean technology centre, in trip focused on climate innovation
• visiting the state-of-the-art Larsen and Toubro (L&T) shipyard, Minister Trevelyan will discuss the electrification of naval fleets and closer maritime security ties

Announcing 2 new technology initiatives, aimed at improving quality of life and enhancing action on climate change, UK Minister for the Indo Pacific Anne-Marie Trevelyan will arrive in Chennai, Southern India today (13 October). The visit will strengthen the UK’s bilateral ties with India by deepening environmental cooperation and exploring cutting edge technologies, including on climate innovation.

During the 3-day trip from 13 to 15 October, the Minister will announce 2 new technology partnerships with India that respond to global sustainability challenges. The projects will boost joint UK-India business innovation, crucial to the Prime Minister’s priority of growing the UK’s economy.

Minister Trevelyan will visit the National Institute of Ocean Technology for insights into India’s deep-sea programs, marine systems, and vessel management. The Minister will then meet Tamil Nadu’s Environment Forest and Climate Change Secretary and learn about UK’s partnership with Tamil Nadu on climate, including the Climate Compatible Growth Programme. At Anna University’s Climate Studio, the Minister will see the unique climate modelling systems on weather forecasting and rainfall prediction.

To reaffirm the UK’s commitment to regional security, Minister Trevelyan will tour Indian manufacturing company Larsen and Toubro’s state-of-the art shipyard at Kattuppalli. Last year the UK and India formed an Electric Propulsion Capability Partnership (EPCP), bringing together expertise from the Royal Navy and UK industry with that of the Indian Navy and Larsen and Toubro. The partnership will be at the centre of industry innovation on the electrification of warships.

Minister for the Indo-Pacific Anne-Marie Trevelyan said:

The UK and India are close partners, joining together our unique expertise to work towards a shared goal: increasing security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.

Our collaboration on a range of issues, including climate change, technology and maritime security, is crucial for addressing global challenges and building a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Minister Trevelyan will launch the UK supported “Smart district” project, alongside Tamil Nadu’s IT Minister, Mr. Palanivel Thiaga Rajan. This initiative will help respond to global sustainability challenges, by piloting the placement of sensors throughout the district to collect real-time data on water and waste management, and environmental quality. These sensors will identify patterns and trends to help inform decision making on resource allocation and management.

Returning to Chennai, the Minister will speak to Chevening alumni working in gender and women’s participation.

Minister Trevelyan’s visit forms part of UK’s long-term commitment to the region. Ensuring a free, open and prosperous Indo-Pacific is a key priority for the UK, which is reflected in recent visits to the region by the UK Foreign Secretary, James Cleverly.

During a visit to the G20 in India last month, the Prime Minister strengthened regional trade ties and forged new partnerships to deliver jobs, growth and security for the British people. In meetings with India’s Prime Minister Modi, the leaders reflected on the close and growing ties between the UK and India, exemplified in the ‘living bridge’ between our people.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 13 October 2023.

UK is supporting Morocco with a contribution of up to £1.45 million to support Moroccan–led recovery following last month’s earthquake.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 13 October 2023.

Statement by UK Political Coordinator Fergus Eckersley at the UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine.

Thank you, President, we’d like to thank Mr. Ebo for his very helpful briefing.

Russia has given many excuses in this Council about what its illegal war of aggression was supposed to achieve.

Russia claims its invasion was defensive, and was born of a desire to protect rights enshrined in the UN charter.

It claimed it was about Denazification.

But now, Russia’s real plan for peace, almost 600 days into its 3 day special operation, is quite clear.

Last week, after relentless Russian strikes on civilian infrastructure, President Putin said that the Ukrainian economy and military would collapse ‘within a week’ without the assistance of other States.

This is the ‘resolution’ that Russia is striving for – the complete submission of a UN member state.

Russia claims that it is Western support that stands in its way.

But, much as we are proud to assist Ukraine, it is in fact, the courage and unity of the Ukrainian people that will ensure that Russia fails and that Ukraine will prevail.

And the reality is this. Russia’s war has already been a failure. A historically shameful one.

The Ukrainian people know too well what Russian conquest would mean for them.

There have been more than 100,000 incidents of alleged war crimes committed during the conflict, including the murder and torture of civilians, and unlawful attacks on civilian infrastructure with explosive weapons.

There has been torture, sexual and gender-based violence by Russian forces that the UN and other international bodies have documented extensively.

And the sham referenda have shown that for Russia, a people’s right to self-determination is found only at the tip of a Russian bayonet.

At the same time, the callous sacrifice of many thousands of Russian troops has made clear the value the Russian government places on its own people.

International assistance to Ukraine is not what is prolonging this war.

The fact is, Russia’s military objectives are unachievable.

Ukrainians will rightly continue to fight fiercely to defend their land for as long as it takes.

And the world is united in supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

That will not change.

International assistance to Russia however, is illegal and immoral.

That is why Russia is relying on heavily sanctioned States such as Iran and DPRK for help with procuring arms.

Iranian drones in Russian hands have killed civilians and caused vast economic damage across Ukraine.

Russia is negotiating deals for huge numbers of weapons from the DPRK to be used against Ukraine.

In turn, the DPRK seeks military technology to bolster its own illegal weapons programme, further destabilising the region.

These deals are a serious risk to international peace and security and violate multiple UN Security Council resolutions, for which Russia itself voted.

President, the Russian Ambassador said we hadn’t proposed any solutions.

We have, and I’ll do it again.

To start with, Russia should end its illegal invasion and withdraw its troops from Ukraine’s sovereign territory.

It’s not complicated.

It’s what the General Assembly and International Court of Justice have demanded.

A just and lasting peace can be achieved through the broad principles set out by President Zelenskyy based on the UN charter.

International support for his initiative is growing, and the UK is proud to support those efforts.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 12 October 2023.

Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on the African Union.

Thank you, President, and I join others in thanking the Special Representative, the Permanent Observer and Mr. Dersso for their briefings.

President, UN-AU cooperation is fundamental to achieving our shared goal of a freer, more secure, more prosperous, greener, and healthier continent.

So I am delighted we demonstrated our shared commitment by agreeing a communique at last week’s AUPSC/UNSC meeting in Addis.

President, I want to highlight three points about this partnership:

Firstly, following nine coups on the continent since 2020, efforts to tackle this scourge and its underlying causes are critical. The AU PSC’s decisive action in this regard has been important.

I reiterate UK support for efforts by AU and sub-regional organisations, including ECOWAS, to bring about inclusive political dialogue and peaceful return to the constitutional rule.

We look forward to deepening this dialogue, including exploring the potential of the New Agenda for Peace as Mozambique outlined on behalf of the A3 earlier.

Secondly, coordination between the AU, UN, sub-regional organisations, and international partners is critical to ending conflict and promoting stability.

This is why the UK has long supported permanent African representation on the Security Council.

And it is why we look forward to working with Council colleagues on a framework resolution about UN financing for AU-led missions.

We reiterate our concern about the potential for terrorism in the Sahel to spread to coastal states in West Africa.

And we express our resolute support for efforts to tackle this, particularly regionally-led solutions such as the Accra initiative.

We remain committed to the current sustainable drawdown of ATMIS and thank the AU Commission and TCCs for their tireless work in supporting Somalia’s security.

Since 2022, we have given over $60 million in funding and will contribute again this year.

We also support a coordinated African-led response to the crisis in Sudan that harnesses a supporting role for the UN.

Thirdly, I welcome the continued implementation of the AU-UN framework for the implementation of agenda 2063, and the 2030 agenda, and the Silencing the Guns agenda.

To realise their shared vision of inclusive and sustainable economic development we

must increase international cooperation.

Indeed, collaboration is instrumental in addressing the humanitarian challenges on the continent such as food insecurity, where more than 160 million people in Africa are acutely vulnerable.

Next month, we are partnering with Somalia and UAE to host a Global Food Security Summit, bringing together international expertise to galvanise action to prevent food insecurity, malnutrition and to save lives.

President, we look forward to developing and deepening the cooperation between the AU and the UN in pursuit of our shared goals.

Thank you.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 12 October 2023.

UK Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Rt Hon. Johnny Mercer MP, met British Army veterans across Fiji during his trip and met senior Fijian ministers.

A senior UK government minister has joined Fijian nationals in celebrating their national day (Tuesday, 10 October).

The Rt Hon. Johnny Mercer MP, the UK Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, met British Army veterans across Fiji during his trip and met senior Fijian Government Ministers.

Mr Mercer is the first UK Minister to attend Fiji Day celebrations in recent history. The celebrations are the culmination of a week-long programme of religious and cultural events.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Rt Hon. Johnny Mercer MP, said:

It was an honour to attend Fiji Day and celebrate with the people of Fiji this significant day in your calendar.

Fijian soldiers continue to play a vital role in the British Armed Forces. I’m here to recognise that, and their service, and learn something about their country. It was a pleasure meeting Fijian veteran during this trip, and personally express my gratitude for their service.

There remains a terrible stigma around mental health. On my trip I met a range of Fijian mental health professionals to discuss the landscape here, particularly around providing support to those who have experienced stress and trauma in combat. I am keen that the UK and Fiji share experience and expertise in this area, to ensure better support to those who need it the most.

It was an honour for me to meet veterans of the 1950s nuclear tests. I was able to listen to their experience and discuss the Nuclear Test Medal which will recognise their service.

During his time in Fiji, the Minister will also visit Momi Bay Battery Historical Park, which was tasked with defending the Navula passage in World War II from a Japanese coastal invasion.

Further information

The Nuclear Test medal was announced by the Prime Minister in November 2022, 70 years after the first British test of a nuclear weapon, and recognises military, civilian, and overseas staff and personnel who participated in Britain’s nuclear testing programme. The medal will recognise the contribution made by veterans and civilian staff from across Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Kiribati and includes scientists and local employees.

The Ministry of Defence Medal Office has begun to dispatch medals to Commonwealth veterans, where their applications have already been received and approved. The British High Commissioner will arrange for medals to be passed to Commonwealth recipients.

The medal will also be awarded posthumously. Veterans, civilian staff and next of kin from across the UK and Commonwealth can apply for the commemorative medal through the MOD’s Medal Office, which will be free of charge.

Sharing best practice and working with like-minded international counterparts are part of the UK Government’s wider efforts to make the UK the best country in the world to be a veteran. The UK now has a dedicated Office for Veterans’ Affairs sitting outside of the Ministry of Defence and under the direction of a Minister who attends Cabinet, following in the footsteps of other Five Eyes allies.

Eligible veterans, civilians and their next of kin can now submit an application to the MOD Medal Office.

See full eligibility to receive the Nuclear Test Medal.

The qualifying period for the medal is defined as “service of any length”. Priority will be given to issuing medals to veterans and civilians involved in the nuclear tests before those sent to next of kin.

A copy of the eligibility criteria for the medal has been deposited in the Libraries of the Houses of Parliament.

The Nuclear Test Medal was first announced by the Prime Minister in November 2022.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 12 October 2023.

Lord Nick Herbert, the UK Prime Minister’s Special Envoy on LGBT+ Rights, made a visit to Thailand from 2 to 4 October 2023. The visit demonstrates the UK’s commitment to working with Thailand and allies in promoting greater LGBT+ rights and inclusion.