The UK’s status as a clean energy superpower just got a major boost – signing a groundbreaking agreement with Qatar, securing £1 billion in climate technology investments.
This partnership will drive employment and innovation, creating thousands of highly skilled jobs. Additionally, climate technology hubs will be established across the UK and Qatar, propelling the development of climate-friendly technologies.
British engineering giant Rolls-Royce will also benefit from the investment, supporting technology programs that boost energy efficiency, develop sustainable fuels, and cut carbon emissions.
The investment will also extend to startups in the UK and Qatar, specifically those specializing in energy efficiency, carbon management, and green power.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and His Highness The Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, are set to formalize a significant agreement at Downing Street, following Qatar’s confirmation of its initial £1 billion commitment.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said, “I am proud that Qatar has chosen to base this global partnership here in the UK and I am delighted that the project is getting off the ground with this initial £1 billion commitment. Qatar and Rolls-Royce pursuing these opportunities in climate technology is a significant step in our ambition to become a clean energy superpower and further evidence that the UK is one of the best places in the world for companies to develop those technologies. We’re delivering on our promise to make growth our number one priority, by boosting our partnerships with other forward-looking partners to invest in UK industry and create thousands of highly-skilled jobs in the industries of the future.”
Prime Minister of Qatar HE Sheikh Mohammed Abdulrahman al Thani said, “We are delighted to formally launch this groundbreaking partnership. The United Kingdom has a proud history of innovation in cutting edge technology, and Qatar has long been a trusted investment partner to British businesses. This new collaboration aligns with our long-term strategy to invest in the economies of the future. We welcome the formalisation of our strategic relationship with Rolls-Royce. Qatar is already one of the largest purchasers of Rolls-Royce engines for Qatar Airways and a major investor in the small modular reactor nuclear industry. This new partnership further strengthens Qatar’s position as a leading global investor in climate technologies. We welcome the creation of highly skilled jobs in both Qatar and the UK, and look forward to welcoming a diverse range of businesses to Doha as part of the Rolls-Royce partnership.”
Tufan Erginbilgic, CEO of Rolls-Royce, expressed his enthusiasm by stating, “In the last two years we have made significant progress in the transformation of Rolls-Royce. This announcement is further evidence of our progress to create a highly competitive and fast-growing company. Enabling the energy transition through lower carbon technologies is a key part of our strategy. We are delighted to welcome Qatar as a strategic partner, who will support the growth of these technologies. They share our ambition to make an impact on the challenge of climate change.”
The UK-Qatar partnership will establish climate technology hubs nationwide, harnessing expertise from leading universities, industries, free ports and the Qatar Free Zone. These hubs will foster innovation, drive growth and attract investment. Additionally, sites in Qatar will provide startups with access to markets and opportunities in both countries, paving the way for further inward investment and solidifying the UK’s position as a clean energy superpower.
The UK-Qatar deal marks a significant milestone in their decades-long collaboration, boosting their thriving investment relationship. This partnership will drive economic growth, create jobs and attract investment in both nations, showcasing the UK’s appeal as a prime investment destination. The deal also highlights the robust relationship between Qatar and Rolls-Royce, underscoring their shared commitment to innovation and growth.
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said, “Increasing investment in the UK is a mission at the heart of this government. This partnership between Rolls-Royce and Qatar is not only a huge vote of confidence in the UK but will also help create thousands of highly skilled jobs. Our commitment to becoming a clean energy superpower is steadfast, and investments like these make a huge contribution to bolstering the UK as a leader in climate technology. We’re showing investors that Britain is back as a stable place to do business, helping to secure the investment needed to make every part of our country better off.”
The UK and Qatar are strengthening their partnership by exploring cutting-edge technologies like genomics and artificial intelligence. Genomics holds immense potential for revolutionizing healthcare, while AI can drive economic growth and enhance public services.
The UK and Qatar are strengthening their partnership with a shared Genomics Medicine Academy and a joint AI research commission. This collaboration fosters closer ties in science, innovation and technology through the UK-Qatar Strategic Dialogue, launched in 2022. The partnership tackles pressing challenges by harnessing science and technology for economic growth and improved public health.
