Albudaiwi highlighted the importance of the strategic partnership between the GCC and the UK Crompton said the UK is keen to cement its partnership with the GCC RIYADH: The Gulf Cooperation Council’s new Secretary General Jassem Mohamed Albudaiwi met with the British ambassador to Riyadh Neil Crompton on Wednesday. During the meeting, the two officials discussed the latest regional and international issues, and Albudaiwi highlighted the importance of the strategic partnership between the GCC and the UK. The head of the Gulf bloc also pointed out that he was looking forward to the success of the third round of Free Trade Agreement negotiations which will be held in Riyadh in March. Crompton said the UK is keen to cement its partnership with the GCC which is Britain’s fourth largest trading partner.