Bahrain Mirror: UK Government Spokesperson in the Middle East and North Africa, Edwin Samuel, has announced that the British Prime Minister, Theresa May will attend the 37th Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), to be hosted by the Kingdom of Bahrain on December 6-7.

This will be May's first visit to the region since her premiership began.

In a statement carried by the Dubai-based UK Government Regional Media and Communication Office, Edwin Samuel said that Prime Minister May's decision to make her first regional visit to GCC, and take part in the 37th GCC Summit was a strong message that the United Kingdom had not withdrawn from the world, particularly the region.

It also proves that the UK will strengthen its relations with allies and partners, the UK Government Spokesperson added.

The statement further stated "There is no doubt that the Prime Minister's decision to start her first visit to the Middle East with Gulf States and take part in GCC summit  is a strong British message that London does not withdraw from the world, especially the region. It, however, strengthens its relations with its allies and partners."

"It also means that the Gulf's security and prosperity are a priority to the British government. Our relations exceeds economic and trade interests to strategic relations and partnerships in various fields," the statement read.

May had reiterated her country's commitment to the security of the Gulf, "including through HMS Juffair naval base in Bahrain."

Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa had officially invented Theresa May, in their meeting in London in October, to attend the GCC summit as a guest of honor

It is to mention that the GCC council includes Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, Qatar and the Sultanate of Oman.

Arabic Version