Former UK minister Liam Fox to lead Abraham Accords initiative
15 July, 2021
Dr Liam Fox, a former Conservative cabinet minister, has announced that he will take a public role in promoting the ideals of the Abraham Accords from London.
The former defence and international trade secretary has been a friend of the region through a career in government that stretches back to the 1990s.
Dr Fox said on Thursday that his role would be defined by his work on the issues underlying the accords as progress is made.
"The Abraham Accords, signed between Bahrain, Israel and the UAE nearly one year ago, gave hope to all of us who want to see disputes between nations resolved through dialogue and not by force," his office said.
Dr Fox said it was his mission to "lead an institution in the UK to promote these accords and the wider cause of peace across the Middle East”.
Sheikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, the Bahraini ambassador to the UK, welcomed Dr Fox's recruitment and spoke of his experience of the region.
“We’re thrilled to have Liam Fox play a leading role in cementing the bridges of communication and collaboration between the Abraham Accords countries," Sheikh Fawaz told The National.
"Our shared view that the region's interests are best met by engagement, co-operation and understanding remains vital for regional peace.
"Dr Fox has been unfaltering in his support for positive engagement and dialogue in the Middle East.
"We have no doubt, with his commitment, insights and initiatives, improved relations between our governments and our peoples, will continue to materialise.”
The announcement underlined that the accords are an opportunity for Israel and its Arab neighbours to "build a common future of shared prosperity, stability and security and they deserve our wholehearted support".
"The purpose of the group is to provide a UK forum to promote the accords and the wider cause of peace across the region."
A day earlier, the UAE opened an embassy in Tel Aviv, months after becoming the first Arab nation in decades to normalise diplomatic relations with Israel.
The formal opening of the mission came after the UAE, Bahrain and Israel signed the accords in Washington last September.
In the weeks after the ceremony, Morocco and Sudan signed diplomatic accords with Israel.
Source: www.thenationalnews.com
TAG(s):