Driving commercial and political engagement between Asia, the Middle East and Europe
Driving commercial and political engagement between Asia, the Middle East and Europe
Driving commercial and political engagement between Asia, the Middle East and Europe
The UK has announced the appointment of its new Trade Commissioner to the Middle East, with the post going to former RBS banker Simon Penney.
According to The Times, Mr Penney – who previously led RBS’s Middle East and Africa operations – will start the role of Her Majesty’s Trade Commissioner (HMTC) to the Middle East this summer.
“The UK’s trade relationship with the region is already strong, but its true potential has not yet been tapped.” Mr Penney said.
“I look forward to getting back on the ground and making the case for UK plc.”
Mr Penney will serve as one of nine HMTCs which will cover Africa, the Asia-Pacific, China, Eastern Europe and Central Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, North America and South Asia. The HMTCs serve under the Department for International Trade (DIT).
According to the DIT website, all of the new HMTCs ‘will cooperate closely with HM Ambassadors and High Commissioners, the wider diplomatic network, and other HM government colleagues based in countries in their region, in a joined-up and coordinated government effort overseas to promote UK trade and prosperity.’
Speaking on the appointment, Liam Fox MP, UK International Trade Secretary, said: “As the UK develops its first independent trade policy in more than 40 years, the opportunity for British firms to trade with markets like the Middle East has never been greater.
“The addition of Simon to the team is a statement of intent for our Middle East trade ambitions, and another example of the department attracting the very best people from across both private and public life. The knowledge, contacts and business nous he brings will be a boost to all firms looking to do business in the region.”
The Trade Commissioner for China is Richard Burn, who covers mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau. Crispin Simon, who recently gave a briefing to Asia House corporate members, is the HMTC for South Asia.
The Trade Commissioner for Asia-Pacific has yet to be appointed.
Arabian Business reports that Mr Penney’s appointment ‘marks the first time that a trade commissioner has been recruited from outside government ranks.’
