THERESA MAY used her address to Royal Navy personnekl yesterday to stress Britain needs to engage with Gulf states on human rights rather than “snipe” from the sidelines.
The Prime Minister, who was on board HMS Ocean, moved to fend off criticism she was putting profits before principles during her two-day visit to Bahrain for the Gulf Co-operation Council summit.
Bahrain has been the subject of strong international condemnation for the way it suppressed demonstrations during the Arab Spring, but Mrs May insisted dialogue was the best way forward.
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The PM said: “If we look at this issue, it’s important that we see there isn’t an either or. While we talk about trade, we also talk about human rights issues.
“What is important, if you are going to raise these issues of human rights, if we are going to work to see that it is being addressed, is that we are engaging with these states, that we are here and we are talking to them, not that we are just sniping from the sidelines.”
During her address she praised the work done by the navy and Royal Marines in the fight against Islamic State terrorists.
Mrs May stressed the Royal Navy will play a key role in supporting the UK’s presence on the world stage after Brexit as she addressed personnel from the deck of the fleet’s flagship.
In a reference to the UK’s changing international role, Mrs May told the assembled personnel: “Today, as we face multiple global challenges and an increasingly uncertain and dangerous world, you are vital to protecting our nation’s interests and provide a clear demonstration of the UK’s enduring security commitment to the Gulf.
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“And as Britain steps up to forge a new, positive, confident role for our country on the global stage, the Royal Navy will be an important part of our vision, pursuing our objectives of security on land and at sea and helping to ensure the free flow of international trade.”
Flanked by two Jackal armoured vehicles from 42 Commando, the Prime Minister said: “Britain takes enormous pride in our Royal Navy, known the world over for its professionalism and expertise and for the dedication and courage of its sailors, Royal Marines and its officers.”
She also revealed that Donald Trump is very easy to talk to, despite criticising the US president-elect during his campaign for the White House.
Mrs May said the Republican is committed to the special relationship between the US and Britain.
Speaking during a visit to Bahrain, Mrs May said: “What I have found with Donald Trump is that he is somebody who very much values the relationship he has with the UK.
“When we’ve talked that’s been one of the key things we’ve talked about, is the depth of our special relationship, and the fact we both want to ensure we obviously maintain that, but we also build on that for the future.”
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Asked how she found the President-elect, Mrs May said: “Very easy to talk to.”
The pair have had a second telephone conversation since then, and Mr Trump has invited the PM to Washington after his inauguration.
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