The UK and Israel share extremely close ties as seen through the
developing economic and technological relationship between the
two nations.
The UK is proud to be linked to Israel’s thriving technology
industry – from cybersecurity, fintech, and healthcare, to energy
and climate tech. UK companies have established partnerships and
collaborations with Israeli companies in the tech sector. Over
400 Israeli technology firms have set up offices and operations
in the UK – more than in any other European country. The British
Embassy’s very own ‘Tech Hub’ – the first of its kind in any
British Embassy anywhere, supports many.
The UK is one of Israel’s most important trading partners, with
trade between the two countries reaching over £7 billion annually
in 2022. The current UK-Israel Trade and Partnership Agreement
was one of the UK’s first trade continuity agreements signed
after Britain left the European Union, and ensures tariff-free
trade on 99% of the value of goods traded between the two
countries. The UK is currently negotiating an upgraded, ambitious
Free Trade Agreement, which will focus on services and innovation
where both Israel and the UK can excel.
For the past 75 years, the UK has been clear about Israel’s right
to exist and is unequivocal in supporting Israeli security and
right to self-defence, in the face of threats from its
neighbours, particularly Iran. The UK has often stood at the UN
defending Israel against unwarranted and disproportionate
criticism.
The UK has consistently supported the establishment of a
two-state solution, with Israel and a future Palestinian state
living side by side in peace and security. This policy is a
fulfilment of the Balfour Declaration but also results from a
sincere belief that lasting security for Israel – preserving its
Jewish and democratic character – requires a solution that offers
equal rights and dignity for both Israelis and Palestinians.
As we reflect on the past 75 years of friendship between the UK
and Israel, we are also looking ahead to the future. Last month
the UK and Israel signed the 2030 roadmap for UK-Israel bilateral
relations. The roadmap sets out our ambitions for cooperation
over the next decade, as part of an innovative and
forward-looking strategic partnership. It includes a new £20
million Scientific and Innovation programme, funded by both
governments.
UK’s Foreign Secretary, , said:
The strong ties between the UK and Israel over the past 75 years
is a testament to the strength of our close and historic
relationship.
The UK and Israel stand together, defiant in the face of the
malign influence of Iran in the region, and against the wider
scourge of antisemitism.
I am happy to celebrate the significant milestone of Israel’s
75th birthday. Yom Ha’atzmaut Sameach!
, British Ambassador to Israel,
said:
I am proud of the strength of the UK-Israel relationship. Whether
it’s our trade, tourism, technological collaboration, culture or
security, both countries will continue to work together.
I know that the past 75 year relationship is just the beginning
of what is an ever-evolving, ever-closer relationship.
