Today’s report states that differences between the nations can confuse the public’s understanding of the relationship between the UK and Gulf countries, and MPs say the government has failed to explain this link properly.
The Foreign Affairs Committee says that the government must not take their relationship with these countries for granted because Saudi Arabia and Bahrain have many other important partners.
As a result, today’s report states that the UK will have to worker harder in the future if they are going to maintain their influence in the Gulf, and secure their own interests in the relationship.
The UK government has always emphasised their warm relationship with the leaders of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, but there are worries that these feelings are not shared by the public on either side.
The UK government needs to make sure that their public profile and reputation becomes a central part of its work in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. The committee hopes that this will ensure the formation of a constructive relationship.
The report asks the government to improve how they explain their policies and achievements when they talk both at home and in the Gulf.
Saudi Arabia has already made promising steps to improve their provision of assistance in legal and judicial reform but they must work to complete the improvement of these programmes.
Similarly, Bahrain must secure access for NGOs and the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture for a successful relationship with the UK in the future.
Saudi Arabia is a key buyer in the UK defence industry. This is controversial but the committee says that stopping this would only have a negative effect on the UK by reducing their leverage in the Gulf.
Committee Chairman Rt Hon Richard Ottaway MP said “The UK’s relations with Saudi Arabia and Bahrain require a sensitive and nuanced approach, taking into account our long history of relations and shared interests, as well as the differences between our societies.
“The Government is correct to focus on what is constructive and achievable by working with the leadership in both states, but it cannot simply ignore the charges of hypocrisy and criticism levelled against the UK.
“The FCO must find new ways to explain the UK’s approach, to highlight its successes, and to present a more coherent strategy of engagement with these important allies.
“The Committee heard powerful accounts of very differing experiences in Bahrain, from across the political and social spectrum. We are deeply saddened by the impression of a society that is becoming increasingly polarised.
“Although there are undeniably many serious human rights concerns in these states, there is also some cause to be optimistic about reform. King Abdullah has made significant progress on reforms in Saudi Arabia, particularly on women’s rights.
“Although this starts from a very low base, progress should be recognised and encouraged. In Bahrain, the Crown Prince is doing valuable work in promoting reform and reconciliation, and the UK is right to support his efforts.
“Nonetheless, the Government must be vigilant in monitoring progress in both states and be prepared to respond robustly where reforms stall or are reversed”.