UK seeks to deepen financial and technology ties with Qatar

London's Mayor, Dame Susan Langley, emphasized the strong and long-term economic partnership between Qatar and the United Kingdom during her recent visit to Doha. The interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA) highlighted her mission to transform this relationship into practical opportunities, connecting Qatari investors with UK projects and assisting British firms in establishing partnerships in Qatar, especially in finance, technology, infrastructure, and sustainable growth.

Langley stressed that Qatari investment has bolstered various sectors in the UK, while British expertise has played a crucial role in Qatar's growth and development. She reiterated the UK's commitment to providing a secure and transparent environment for sustainable investment, highlighting London's advantages such as the rule of law, regulated markets, deep financial markets, and world-class professional advice.

The Lady Mayor explained that London's expertise in investment, insurance, technology, and professional services can help finance new industries, safeguard major projects, and enable businesses to expand internationally. She further mentioned the potential for collaboration in green growth, FinTech, and Islamic finance, suggesting that London can assist in raising private capital for green infrastructure and clean-energy projects while supporting Qatari firms in developing new services and expanding globally.

Regarding the GCC-UK free trade agreement, Langley noted that the agreement has been concluded and, upon implementation, should streamline trade and facilitate services and digital trade, making it easier for companies to comprehend the rules in each market. This development is particularly beneficial for smaller businesses, as it enhances their confidence to export, form partnerships, and invest in each other's markets.

Langley also introduced the UK's new initiative, InvestConnect, which aims to simplify the search for credible UK opportunities, including major infrastructure, property, and growth projects. The Office for Investment: Financial Services provides investors with a dedicated point of contact and tailored support across government and the financial sector, enabling Qatari investors to explore a wider range of opportunities, conduct thorough checks, and transition from initial interest to actual investment more efficiently.

When discussing competition from other global financial centers, Langley acknowledged that competition among financial hubs is healthy. However, she emphasized that London's strength lies in its comprehensive financial ecosystem, offering deep capital markets, trusted legal and regulatory frameworks, global talent, specialist insurance, and professional advice. London's international connections across Europe, the Gulf, Asia, and North America further contribute to its appeal as a global financial center.