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Tag: Press Release

  • PRESS RELEASE : Over 100 religious sites have been damaged or destroyed since the Russian invasion of Ukraine: UK statement at the UN Security Council [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Over 100 religious sites have been damaged or destroyed since the Russian invasion of Ukraine: UK statement at the UN Security Council [November 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 17 November 2023.

    Statement by UK Political Coordinator Fergus Eckersley at the UN Security Council meeting on threats to international peace and security.

    Thank you, President, and thank you to our briefers.

    I also thank the Russian delegation for bringing human rights issues to the Security Council. The United Kingdom has long believed in the link between human rights and matters of peace and security, and we are glad that the Russian delegation now appears to share this view. We look forward to further discussions on human rights in the Council.

    The UK is committed to defending freedom of religion or belief for all around the world. We condemn all persecution on the grounds of religion or belief.  Ukraine shares these values. It is a pluralist and multi-faith society, with the right to freedom of religion or belief enshrined in its constitution. Its lawmakers have sought the advice of experts on freedom of religion and belief as they respond to threats to Ukraine’s national security.

    Russia does not share this commitment. Religious leaders are among those targeted by Russian forces and subjected to torture and enforced disappearances. Russian authorities are carrying out house searches and arbitrary arrests of Crimean Tatars, accusing them of extremism and terrorism just for peacefully practicing their faith.

    Russian Orthodox priests have been disciplined for expressing opposition to the Russian invasion of Ukraine – even defrocked for praying for peace instead of victory. Over 100 religious sites have been damaged or destroyed since the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

    This includes the devastating destruction to the Transfiguration Cathedral – Odesa’s largest Orthodox church – in July this year, previously destroyed under Stalin in 1936. Our Foreign Secretary saw the extent of the damage first hand during his visit to Odesa yesterday.

    Colleagues, the Russian delegation is presenting itself today as the defender of the Orthodox Christian faith and its values.

    But is it Christian to covet and steal your neighbour’s land?

    Is it Christian to disrupt the global supply of food?

    Is it Christian to kill civilians?

    The Orthodox faith of course does not encourage these things. It does however encourage confession of sins, and repentance.

    President, the best way to ensure that Ukrainians can enjoy their freedom of religion and belief – and all of their human rights – is for Russia to end its war of aggression, withdraw its forces and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Skilled refugees contributing £1m to UK economy each year [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Skilled refugees contributing £1m to UK economy each year [November 2023]

    The press release issued by the Home Office on 17 November 2023.

    The UK government is encouraging businesses to use the Displaced Talent Mobility pilot to help at-risk people from around the world to help fill skills gaps.

    Skilled refugees are contributing nearly £1 million each year in income tax and national insurance thanks to UK government pilot schemes to help those fleeing their homes find employment, helping to boost the UK economy and enabling businesses to access the vital skills they need.

    Following a successful start, the government’s Displaced Talent Mobility Pilot has been extended for a further year, with more businesses being encouraged to hire skilled refugees while helping people rebuild their lives in the UK. First launched in October 2021, businesses ranging from renowned global companies to small enterprises have participated in the scheme, with refugees fulfilling roles as senior engineers, paralegals, construction managers, and software testing consultants in priority sectors.

    The initiative aims to match up to 200 people with UK employment opportunities, with Syrian and Afghan nationals the most common beneficiaries of the scheme so far.

    Delivered in partnership with Talent Beyond Boundaries, a global not-for-profit, displaced talent candidates are supported to get sponsored by a UK employer, and also benefit from free priority visa processing. To participate in the pilot, talented individuals will need to create a profile with Talent Beyond Boundaries and they will contact those who match the criteria for vacancies companies are looking to fill.

    The pilot is also now being expanded, following an initial focus on candidates in Lebanon and Jordan, as well as Afghan nationals. Now refugees and displaced people of any nationality or location are eligible to benefit.

    Minister for Immigration, Robert Jenrick, said:

    Our Displaced Talent Mobility pilot is a safe and legal route that ensures refugees can rebuild their lives in the UK, contribute to society and integrate into local communities swiftly.

    I encourage more companies to take part in the pilot and consider the skills and talent that exist, while providing opportunities for refugees to live independently and contribute to the UK.

    The scheme uses the existing Skilled Worker route, which enabled the Home Office to set up the pilot quickly and better understand the barriers to accessing those routes for displaced people.

    Marina Brizar, UK & Europe Director, Talent Beyond Boundaries said:

    Talent Beyond Boundaries warmly welcomes the extension of the Displaced Talent Mobility pilot. This initiative embraces the power of equitable access to skilled migration by unlocking the potential of displaced people. We remain wholly committed to paving the path toward a world where the skills of displaced people know no borders and the opportunities for secure futures transcend barriers.

    Phil Ogden, EnerMech Chief HR Officer said:

    We understand the importance of a diverse, skilled and competent workforce and recognised the clear benefits of engaging with Talent Beyond Boundaries to support displaced people through providing secure employment opportunities.

    We recently welcomed two Syrian refugees to our Engineering team in Aberdeen whose skills have already proven to be extremely valuable to EnerMech. As the energy transition ramps up in the UK, building an experienced pool of talent is essential to the ongoing success of our business. Talent Beyond Boundaries are key to supporting both our objectives and the aspirations of the talented people they represent.

    Malek, from Syria and who was resettled in the UK under the Displaced Talent Mobility pilot, said:

    Where I was, you don’t feel stability, you feel afraid. Here in the UK, from the first day, you feel safe.

    If your business has a gap, the Displaced Talent Mobility Pilot is a great scheme. People who have moved to the country are committed and it is a good thing to have people from other places. This is because they have different experiences from the other work fields and because they have come from challenging places, they will do their best to prove themselves and be successful in their jobs and new lives.

    Successes so far, include:

    • the first Displaced Talent candidate was a Syrian national who arrived in the UK in 2021. They are now working as a specialist construction recruiter in the West Midlands
    • in 2023, two Afghan women started roles as paralegals in Sheffield, and a Project Engineer began working for an engineering company in Aberdeen
    • other individuals have started roles in the engineering, construction, and creative industries
  • PRESS RELEASE : Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security are inseparable – UK statement to the OSCE [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security are inseparable – UK statement to the OSCE [November 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 17 November 2023.

    Emma Logan, UK Delegation to the OSCE, says the current challenges facing the Indo-Pacific are clearly linked to the security of the OSCE region.

    Thank you Mr Chair for convening this important meeting and thank you also to our keynote speaker, our Asian Partners, and our panellists for clearly outlining the current challenges facing the Indo-Pacific and the clear link to the security of our region.

    As we have heard repeatedly today, the Indo-Pacific is critical to the sustainability and future prosperity of communities worldwide. The stakes are high, with opportunity and risk.

    And that is why we have concerns regarding stability in the region, at the centre of intensifying geopolitical competition. We see a rise in coercive and aggressive practices, and opaque military modernisation occurring at unprecedented rates.  There are close parallels with our experience in Europe, and there is much we can learn from each other on how we respond to hybrid risks, how we defend our democratic systems, how we build citizen trust, and how we ensure digital, transport and other infrastructure connectivity between our economies to underpin our prosperity in a sustainable way.

    And beyond human disruptions, the region faces some of the most extreme effects from climate change and biodiversity loss.  Just ask our friends in the Pacific, who face an existential threat from rising sea levels and extreme weather.  These are challenges we need to address together.

    There is also no doubt that Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security are inseparable. What happens in one has direct impact in another, as we have seen with economic shocks in Asia caused by Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.

    The UK’s vision – shared with many of our closest partners – is for a free and open Indo-Pacific, where states can make sovereign choices free from coercion and where there is respect for territorial integrity in line with international law.

    We welcome the similarities in approach taken by many of our European and Asian partners. In light of them jointly convening this event, and it being our 140th year of diplomatic relations, I would particularly like to compliment the Republic of Korea on their own Indo-Pacific strategy, which shares many of the same approaches as the UK, and which outlines a bold vision for engagement with the region including in the digital future economy, where the Republic of Korea is a world leader.

    I would also note the importance of ASEAN’s vision in its Outlook on the Indo-Pacific which underlines openness, sovereignty and respect for international rules, alongside maritime cooperation, connectivity and sustainable development – these are in large measure our priorities too.  We have much common ground.

    As we know, the OSCE is built on the foundation of comprehensive security, a recognition that there are a multitude of intersecting factors that promote the prosperity and security of States and regions, be that military transparency, human rights, security sector reform, rule of law, or anti-corruption efforts, to name a few. Continuing dialogue with our Asian partners on the lessons we have learnt through the OSCE’s history, how we helped build transparency and confidence, how these lessons can be applied to the Indo-Pacific, and where in return we must learn from our Asian Partners’ experience, are essential for a more stable future for our interconnected world.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Women in England to receive contraceptive pills at pharmacies [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Women in England to receive contraceptive pills at pharmacies [November 2023]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 17 November 2023.

    Thousands of women across England will soon be able to get the contraceptive pill at their local pharmacy without needing to contact their GP first.

    From next month, pharmacies across the country will begin offering the new service for the first time, increasing choice for women in the ways in which they can access contraception.

    The rollout is part of the government and the NHS’s primary care access recovery plan, which committed to making it quicker and easier for millions of people to access healthcare on their high street.

    How does the service work?

    Anyone needing the pill can access it through participating pharmacies without a referral from their GP, though they can be referred by their general practice or sexual health clinic.

    The pharmacist will offer a confidential consultation and reach a shared decision with the person about their first supply of the pill, or the ongoing supply of their current oral contraception. The supply of oral contraception will be free.

    What checks will I need?

    For a combined oral hormonal contraception, a BMI and blood pressure measurement will need to be taken. These can be taken as part of the consultation within the pharmacy.

    A person accessing the service may also offer their own weight, height and blood pressure measurements. Any self-reported measurements will need to be recorded as such.

    Extensive training for pharmacists

    Priya Littler is a pharmacist in Portsmouth and took part in a pilot of the service at the beginning of 2022. The pharmacy has seven branches across the city and all participated.

    She said that the training for pharmacists was extensive, covering topics such as general consultation skills, the legal framework for prescribing combination and progesterone only contraception, as well as information around sexually transmitted infections and other areas that may come up during consultations.

    Priya’s pharmacy branch is on a high street near to a university campus, meaning she sees both students and young families.

    “Some of our clients may find it difficult to get an appointment with their GP”, she said, “so we wanted to make contraceptive pill services more accessible. It was also an interesting pilot for our teams to join, to expand their skills and knowledge.”

    Consultations in minutes

    Ben Morris, a pharmacist in Stoke-on-Trent, took part in a pilot of the scheme in October 2021, which gave local people the option to access their ongoing supply of oral contraception directly from their community pharmacist.

    After undergoing the necessary clinical training, Ben began consultations in January 2022.

    He says that when they first started, each would take around 10-15 minutes, but now they are comfortable with the system and what it involves, they are able to deliver the consultations in five or six minutes.

    “Even with the combined pill, where we need to take blood pressure, height and weight, it’s quick, including when people first register,” he said. “When it’s progesterone only, where we don’t have to do the tests like with the combined pill, it’s even quicker.

    “It’s basically a case of now we’re used to it, we can deliver it more quickly. Where the patient consents, we also complete an anonymised returning patient message to the GP which adds about another five minutes”.

    Easier access to contraception

    Ben says anecdotal feedback was “overwhelmingly positive”.

    “The ease of access and our service delivery is also giving people more general confidence in us to use the other services we offer,” he said.

    “Rather than having these patients arrange a GP appointment, surgeries are now simply passing queries directly to us.

    “We’re pleased that by working together, we have cemented their trust in us to deliver the confidential consultations in our private rooms and that we have the clinical expertise necessary to provide a repeat prescription.”

  • PRESS RELEASE : Troika Statement on Attacks in Darfur, Sudan and the Need for a Cessation of Violence [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Troika Statement on Attacks in Darfur, Sudan and the Need for a Cessation of Violence [November 2023]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 17 November 2023.

    The Troika (Norway, the United Kingdom and the United States) have condemned the escalating violence and human rights abuses in Sudan.

    Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United States (The Troika), condemns the escalating violence and human rights abuses in Sudan, especially attacks by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in West, Central and South Darfur. These have included – according to credible reports – mass killings including ethnic targeting of non-Arab and other communities, killings of traditional leaders, unjust detentions, and obstruction of humanitarian aid. We are also concerned by reports of violence in the town of Jebel Aulia, on the White Nile River, where there are reports of targeting of civilians.

    We reiterate that there is no acceptable military solution to the conflict, and call for an end to the fighting. We urge the RSF and Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) to refrain from actions that would further divide Sudan along ethnic lines or draw other forces into their conflict.  Both sides need to de-escalate and engage in meaningful discussions that lead to a ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian access.  To that end, we welcome the recent resumption of talks in Jeddah, co-facilitated by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United States, and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), which is also participating on behalf of the African Union, and recognise the initial humanitarian commitments made by the parties on November 7.

    Achieving a sustainable solution requires ending violence and resuming a civilian-owned political process to form a civilian government and restore Sudan’s democratic transition. We welcome the efforts of the Sudanese people as they work to support humanitarian responses, demand an end to the war, and resume the stalled political transition.

    The Troika countries are proud to be among the largest donors in support of the Sudanese people, and we will continue to focus on efforts to ensure that diverse communities are able to participate meaningfully in building Sudan’s democratic future, at the same time as supporting displaced persons and other at-risk communities through life-saving humanitarian aid.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government calls on councils to make taxis and private hire vehicles more accessible [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government calls on councils to make taxis and private hire vehicles more accessible [November 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 17 November 2023.

    Updated best practice guidance puts more emphasis on making taxi and PHV services more accessible to disabled people.

    • safety and accessibility at the heart of updated government guidance on taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) regulation
    • councils urged to take action against operators who do not meet standards to protect passengers with disabilities
    • DfT to launch further call for evidence specifically on passengers’ accessibility needs in taxis and PHVs

    Ministers have urged councils to act on new government guidance to help improve the accessibility of taxis and minicabs in their area.

    Taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs) are regulated by local licensing authorities and the government’s updates to guidance, published today (17 November 2023), underline councils must take action against drivers who discriminate against people with disabilities and guide dog owners, issuing fines and suspending licences where required. PHV operators, meanwhile, are encouraged to identify a passenger’s accessibility needs before they take a booking to ensure an appropriate vehicle is provided.

    In addition, councils should incentivise the uptake of wheelchair accessible vehicles and ensure they can be used easily and safely by a range of passengers. Some wheelchair accessible vehicles may not be suitable for other disabled passengers and, when issuing licences, licensing authorities should ensure their area has the right mix of vehicles to suit their community.

    Roads Minister, Guy Opperman, said:

    Disabled people rely on taxi and private hire vehicles services and it’s unacceptable for people to be unlawfully discriminated against when travelling.

    It’s vital these services cater for disabled people’s needs, and local authorities should take action now to ensure drivers and operators understand their duties so everyone can travel with confidence.

    Other recommendations include training and assessing drivers with a focus on taking a defensive approach to driving, such as recognising the impact of speeding, or driving while distracted or fatigued, particularly where there have been passenger complaints.

    The guidance also seeks to support industry by removing undue burdens. For instance, given the reliability and ease of satnav systems, PHV drivers should not be required to undertake navigational skills tests for pre-booked journeys, while licensing fees should be reviewed regularly to ensure they are appropriate.

    Alongside the guidance, the Department for Transport (DfT) also intends to launch a further call for evidence specifically about passengers’ accessibility needs in taxis and PHVs to inform future policy decisions.

    A Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee (DPTAC) spokesperson said:

    DPTAC welcomes this new best practice guidance, particularly the much greater emphasis on making taxi and PHV services more accessible to disabled people.

    We hope that this will see licensing authorities addressing the barriers that hinder disabled people using taxis and PHVs, including a rapid reduction in the 38% of authorities that do not make disability awareness training mandatory for drivers.

    We have been pleased to work with DfT in the production of this guidance and will continue to press for more steps to make taxis and PHVs more accessible.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Thousands more people benefit from free legal support [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Thousands more people benefit from free legal support [November 2023]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 17 November 2023.

    More than 33,000 people have been helped to tackle family, debt and housing issues thanks to over £3 million of government investment in legal support.

    • 33,000 people helped to tackle family, housing and debt problems
    • Over £3 million has helped support more people in need
    • Part of £25 million package of funding to boost legal support since 2015

    This has saved thousands of people the stress and expense of a court hearing, supporting with a total of 36,000 issues over the last 2 years.

    It has offered vital support to people facing issues such as house repossession, managing debt, or seeking help over childcare or custody agreements.

    An evaluation report published today (17 November 2023) shows the majority of those seeking support were women and nearly everyone coming to advisors found the right help.

    The early legal advice led to increased income for those who were directed to help like the carers’ allowances, and people reporting feelings of greater independence and improved wellbeing.

    Justice Minister Lord Bellamy KC said:

    This funding ensures people have somewhere to turn to regardless of their financial circumstances and can avoid stressful court battles.

    Now research shows that not only can early legal advice help people solve their problems quickly, but can also improve their finances and health.

    The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) has provided over £25 million to organisations providing legal support for litigants in person since 2015. The £3.2 million 2 year scheme was launched in 2020 between the MOJ and Access to Justice Foundation.

    Clare Carter, CEO of Access to Justice Foundation, said:

    We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with Ministry of Justice to strive to ensure that people most in need of early legal advice are able to access it.

    We know from legal advice charities across England and Wales how crucial this funding has been to help people access income, preserve employment and secure housing. Demand for these services is increasing by up to 50 percent across the sector, so the needs for these funds has never been more acute.

    The research is published as the Lord Chancellor Alex Chalk speaks at the Civil Justice Council National Forum about the importance of early intervention for those facing legal issues.

    Other activity supported by the government include a partnership between the MOJ and Citizens Advice to deliver the Flourish Wellbeing Hub in the Wirral which provides access to early legal advice alongside healthcare provision to tackle complex or multiple issues in one space.

    The Hub opened in November 2022 and will continue to benefit from a total of £145,000 of MOJ investment up to 2025.

    Social welfare and legal advice is provided through organisations including Citizens Advice, Involve Northwest and Age UK, who can quickly work together with other partners Mind UK and Grow Change Live to identify solutions and provide the right support before problems worsen.

    Reports into supportive initiatives run by the department are published today online here:

    Flourish Wellbeing Hub Report

    Housing Disrepair Online Signposting Tool Report

    Legal Support for Litigants in Person Report

    Integrated Advice Hubs Report

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK Secretary of State makes her first visit to Houston to boost state-level science and technology ties [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK Secretary of State makes her first visit to Houston to boost state-level science and technology ties [November 2023]

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

    The Right Honourable Michelle Donelan MP, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology visits Space City to promote UK innovation and advance UK-TX collaboration with Texas industry leaders.

    HOUSTON, TX., Nov. 16, 2023 – The Rt. Hon. Michelle Donelan MP visited Houston yesterday (Wednesday, Nov. 15.) as part of a multi-state tour of the US to boost science, innovation and technology ties with individual US states.

    Earlier this year the Secretary of State launched the UK’s International Technology Strategy which sets out how the UK will work with its international partners and allies to support our shared growth, address global challenges and build momentum behind a digital and tech future that reflects our values. The US is a key ally in delivering this strategy, and as part of this visit the Secretary of State started her US tour on Monday in Washington, DC and will continue on to San Francisco and Seattle later this week.

    In Houston, she met with senior stakeholders including HPE and NASA to promote the UK technology and aerospace industries as well as the UK’s commitment to even greater links with Texas, the second largest and fastest growing state in the US.

    At the Texas Medical Center (TMC), the Secretary of State met the latest cohort of UK-based companies participating in the TMC Innovation accelerator as part of the Innovate UK Global Incubator Programme. This programme supports innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to grow and scale through exploring the potential of global markets. During the meeting, she also highlighted the upcoming Demo Day on Thursday, November 16, where each cohort member will present their groundbreaking ideas. This event provides a platform for engaging with TMC’s eminent scientists, funders, and healthcare professionals, contributing to the advancement of healthcare, research, and education.

    Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, Michelle Donelan said:

    When it comes to science and tech collaboration, Great Britain has no closer ally than our friends and partners in the USA.

    As the home of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Texas is one of the birthplaces of space exploration, as well as a major player in modern space, and there is huge potential in the partnerships and innovations that it can collaborate on with the UK.

    So I am here to share our success story with companies, lawmakers and industry, and to champion Britain as the top-class breeding ground for innovation that it is.

    His Britannic Majesty’s Consul General in Texas, Richard Hyde said:

    Earlier this year the US and UK signed the Atlantic Declaration which acknowledges our two countries joint leadership in science and technology. I am delighted that the Secretary of State has recognised that you cannot understand the US science and innovation landscape without seeing firsthand the Texas miracle.

    Innovate UK Deputy Director – Global, Janet Geddes, said:

    Innovate UK is committed to empowering our businesses to thrive globally. By facilitating access to international innovation opportunities, we aim to not only support our businesses in succeeding on the international stage but also to foster deep and enduring partnerships with key countries like the US. Houston, with its gateway to over 1,760 life sciences companies, cutting-edge healthcare facilities, and world-renowned research institutions, stands as a prime example of our strategic approach.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Algeria-UK Strategic Dialogue – joint statement [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Algeria-UK Strategic Dialogue – joint statement [November 2023]

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

    On the 16 November 2023, the second session of the Strategic Dialogue between the United Kingdom and Algeria was held in London.

    The Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and National Community Abroad of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, His Excellency Ahmed Attaf, met in London on 16 November 2023, in the framework of the second session of the Algeria-United Kingdom Strategic Dialogue.

    The Ministers held constructive talks aimed at deepening existing bilateral cooperation. They praised the longstanding relationship between Algeria and the United Kingdom, which dates back to the sixteenth century and the appointment of the first British Consul in Algiers in 1580 and the signing in 1682 of a bilateral Treaty of Peace and Trade.

    The two sides noted with satisfaction the progress in implementing the recommendations of the first session of the strategic dialogue held in 2020. They emphasised the warm and extensive links between the UK and Algeria, praising the depth of diplomatic, defence, security, economic, trade, scientific research, education and cultural cooperation. The UK and Algeria agreed to strengthen the bilateral partnership in those fields, including through regular official-level engagement.

    The Ministers also discussed regional and multilateral issues of common interest. The two sides shared their assessments of the situation in the North Africa and Middle East, as well as the Sahel region.

    The UK congratulated Algeria on its election earlier this year to both the UN Security Council and the UN Human Rights Council.  The UK looked forward to supporting Algerian priorities during its upcoming tenure at the Security Council and beyond on issues of concern, including shared aims of stability, security and human rights, stability in the Sahel and non-constitutional change of government there. The UK and Algeria expressed concern about non-constitutional changes of government, including in the Sahel, and the importance of addressing the root cause of instability. The deteriorating security situation in Mali, and the need for a resolution to the Niger crisis, were particular areas of concern.

    The Ministers reaffirmed their shared commitment to regular political dialogue and high-level exchanges to deepen understanding and strengthen cooperation on regional and global issues of mutual concern. They also undertook to promote peace, security and stability in their respective regions as well as globally, through close coordination and collaboration within international organisations and fora.

    With regards to the current situation in the Middle East, the two sides expressed their deep concern at the loss of civilian lives and the deteriorating humanitarian situation.  The two parties called for the protection of civilians and the facilitation of access for humanitarian aid.  Both sides reiterated their support for a two-state solution based on 1967 borders as the only viable solution to the Middle East conflict.

    On the issue of Western Sahara, the two sides reaffirmed their commitment for a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution, based on compromise, which provides for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara, consistent with the principles and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations. The two sides reaffirmed their full support to the efforts of the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, Mr Staffan de Mistura as well as MINURSO.  The two countries expressed their concern at the humanitarian situation in the Tindouf refugee camps and reiterated the need for further humanitarian support.

    The UK and Algeria then discussed existing and planned bilateral cooperation. The sides reaffirmed their desire to further strengthen and enhance partnership and cooperation in all fields and explore new avenues of cooperation based on mutual interest. They recognised the potential for further economic cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, energy and technology. Both countries committed to facilitate and promote trade and investment, identify opportunities for business partnerships, and create an enabling environment for increased economic engagement.

    On defence and security, the two sides:

    • welcomed ongoing cooperation in the face of shared security challenges, including the fight against terrorism, organised crime, human trafficking, cyber security and other transnational threats.
    • agreed to strengthen intelligence sharing, law enforcement cooperation, and capacity building efforts to enhance security and promote stability in the region.
    • looked forward to further deepening the close defence relationship and to the Joint Military Dialogue in 2024.
    • reaffirmed the strong cooperation on aviation and maritime security issues – a key enabler for trade and people movement between our two countries. To that end, the two sides agreed to advance a technical Memorandum of Understanding on maritime security cooperation.

    On trade and investment, the two sides:

    • celebrated UK investments in Algeria, and the mutual benefits arising from them.
    • renewed the shared commitment to build successful and mutually beneficial trade and investment partnerships. In this regard, the UK and Algeria identified several opportunities to develop through investment and partnership, including in the fields of renewable energy, finance and banking, the digital and technology sectors, pharmaceuticals, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, agriculture, and tourism.
    • acknowledged the importance of energy cooperation, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and the transition to a low-carbon economy. To that end, the UK and Algeria committed to explore opportunities for collaboration in the energy sector, including knowledge sharing, technology transfer and joint research and development initiatives.
    • acknowledged the importance of supporting and promoting start-ups as drivers of innovation, economic growth and job creation. The UK and Algeria committed to examining future opportunities for exchanging best practice which might be achieved through the signing of bilateral of Memoranda of Understanding.  The UK also acknowledged the significant initiatives undertaken by the Algerian Government to foster the start-up ecosystem since 2020.
    • agreed to explore bilateral exchanges of visits on start-ups and enterprise, aimed at cultivating cross-cultural exchange and collaboration.
    • agreed to  advocate for the establishment of collaborative frameworks between venture capitalists from both countries, fostering the exchange of best practice and facilitating fundraising for Algerian start-ups.
    • welcomed the creation of the Trade Task Force, following on from the trade facilitation workshop earlier this year. To that end, the UK and Algeria signed a Memorandum of Understanding, to act as a foundation to further the discussion on a mutually beneficial trade agreement.
    • welcomed the launch of the Developing Countries Trading Scheme which supports economic growth and diversification in countries across Africa, and which offers Algeria tariff free access to the UK in the majority of sectors.
    • agreed to increase the level of contact and exchanges between business communities.

    On consular affairs, migration and justice, the two sides:

    • noted with satisfaction the level of bilateral dialogue on consular affairs and the recent visit to Algeria by UK Home Office Minister Jenrick earlier this year.
    • agreed to further develop contacts between officials in the fields of consular affairs and to strengthen cooperation on returns.
    • agreed to continue strengthening existing cooperation on wider judicial and home affairs cooperation, including tackling irregular migration and human trafficking, consolidating institutional cooperation including by benefitting Algeria from the UK expertise on anti-corruption and good governance.

    On education and culture, the UK welcomed Algerian government’s initiative to increase the teaching of English language in schools and as a language of tuition in higher education establishments. The UK reiterated its willingness to lend its support in this regard through increasing inter-universities cooperation.  Elsewhere, the two sides:

    • welcomed the launch of the joint Higher Education Committee as a vehicle to strengthen collaboration and build university-to-university partnerships through twinning agreements, joint projects and research programs in the field of agriculture, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology and green hydrogen.
    • looked to facilitate academic cooperation, student exchanges, cultural events and further collaboration between educational and cultural institutions.
    • welcomed the close collaboration between the British Council and the Ministry of National Education to deliver training to English language teachers.
    • welcomed the recent signing of an updated Memorandum of Understanding on the establishment of “British Schools” in Algeria, and now look forward to the opening of a second school – “British Campus Algeria” – in 2024.

    The UK also congratulated the Algerian side on the decision to set up a Cultural centre in London to promote and expand cultural ties between the two countries.

    On parliamentary cooperation, the two sides welcomed the dynamics of political dialogue and committed to encouraging parliamentary cooperation through exchange of visits of members of parliament particularly through reinvigorating the Algerian-UK Friendship Parliamentary Group.

    On the exchange of high level visits between the two countries, the UK looked forward to Algeria’s participation at the Africa-UK Investment Summit which will be hosted by the UK Prime Minister in London on April 2024.

    The two sides agreed to convene for follow up talks at Ministerial level in Algiers in one year’s time.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Intervention by UK and partners in The Gambia v Myanmar ICJ case – joint statement [November 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Intervention by UK and partners in The Gambia v Myanmar ICJ case – joint statement [November 2023]

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

    On 15 November the UK and five partners filed a joint declaration of intervention in the International Court of Justice case brought by The Gambia against Myanmar.

    The governments of Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom today issued the following statement:

    On 15 November, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom filed a joint declaration of intervention in the case brought by The Gambia against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice.

    In these proceedings, The Gambia alleges violations of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (Genocide Convention). It argues that Myanmar’s security forces perpetrate widespread and systemic “clearance operations” against the Rohingya, and that “genocidal acts committed during these operations were intended to destroy the Rohingya as a group, in whole or in part, by the use of mass murder, rape and other forms of sexual violence, as well as the systematic destruction by fire of their villages, often with inhabitants locked inside burning houses”.

    Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom are exercising the right to intervene in this case under Article 63(2) of the Statute of the Court in order to set out their interpretation of the relevant provisions of the Genocide Convention before the Court. They recall that the Genocide Convention requires States Parties to prevent the crime of genocide and hold those responsible to account.

    Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom further reaffirm their commitment to accountability and the international legal order and stress the Court’s vital role in the peaceful settlement of disputes as the principal judicial organ of the United Nations.