• JANUARY: UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is set to spend the month pumped up by his achievement in giving the people what they voted for - Brexit. Five years since David Cameron announced he was calling a referendum on the UK leaving the EU, Mr Johnson holds the reins of power as the country hands back its membership and is cut adrift from the European project. A mask of Mr Johnson's face is waved in Parliament Square in as the clock ticks towards departure day.
    JANUARY: UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is set to spend the month pumped up by his achievement in giving the people what they voted for - Brexit. Five years since David Cameron announced he was calling a referendum on the UK leaving the EU, Mr Johnson holds the reins of power as the country hands back its membership and is cut adrift from the European project. A mask of Mr Johnson's face is waved in Parliament Square in as the clock ticks towards departure day.
  • JANUARY: Mr Johnson says he is ready to negotiate a Canada-style free trade agreement with Europe. But the first signs of trouble come in a meeting with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen, who tells him it would be “basically impossible” to negotiate a close relationship by the end of this year. Mr Johnson’s Brexit deal, hammered out at the end of 2019 passes through the Commons in an historic vote bringing it a step closer to being enshrined in law. But after years of wrangling the moment is overshadowed by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s announcement they are leaving the country, nicknamed Megxit. Mr Johnson attends a summit in Berlin to discuss the Libya conflict where, posted off to the side of the line-up, he jokes with other European leaders during the official photograph.
    JANUARY: Mr Johnson says he is ready to negotiate a Canada-style free trade agreement with Europe. But the first signs of trouble come in a meeting with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen, who tells him it would be “basically impossible” to negotiate a close relationship by the end of this year. Mr Johnson’s Brexit deal, hammered out at the end of 2019 passes through the Commons in an historic vote bringing it a step closer to being enshrined in law. But after years of wrangling the moment is overshadowed by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s announcement they are leaving the country, nicknamed Megxit. Mr Johnson attends a summit in Berlin to discuss the Libya conflict where, posted off to the side of the line-up, he jokes with other European leaders during the official photograph.
  • JANUARY: This is not the end, but a beginning Mr Johnson declares as he broadcasts to the nation at 11pm, the moment the country leaves the EU. He declares it a moment of hope that many people believed would never come. He acknowledges there would be bumps in the road but the country could turn the opportunity into a stunning success. He says he has obeyed the people by taking back the tools of self-government. Brexiteers gather across the country to celebrate ‘Brexit Hour’, while in Brussels the EU flag was lowered without ceremony at the UK’s representation to Europe, leaving just the Union Flag flying. Getty Images
    JANUARY: This is not the end, but a beginning Mr Johnson declares as he broadcasts to the nation at 11pm, the moment the country leaves the EU. He declares it a moment of hope that many people believed would never come. He acknowledges there would be bumps in the road but the country could turn the opportunity into a stunning success. He says he has obeyed the people by taking back the tools of self-government. Brexiteers gather across the country to celebrate ‘Brexit Hour’, while in Brussels the EU flag was lowered without ceremony at the UK’s representation to Europe, leaving just the Union Flag flying. Getty Images
  • FEBRUARY: Boris Johnson finalises his divorce deal with his estranged wife Marina Wheeler after a year-long financial dispute. It paves the way for marriage to his partner Carrie Symonds. By the end of the month, the couple announce they are engaged and expecting a baby. It’s thought he proposed while on holiday in Mustique over Christmas. Ms Symonds has not been seen publically for several months leading to speculation she may be pregnant. She posts on Instagram that she has a baby ‘hatching’ in early summer and releases a picture of the couple sharing a kiss.
    FEBRUARY: Boris Johnson finalises his divorce deal with his estranged wife Marina Wheeler after a year-long financial dispute. It paves the way for marriage to his partner Carrie Symonds. By the end of the month, the couple announce they are engaged and expecting a baby. It’s thought he proposed while on holiday in Mustique over Christmas. Ms Symonds has not been seen publically for several months leading to speculation she may be pregnant. She posts on Instagram that she has a baby ‘hatching’ in early summer and releases a picture of the couple sharing a kiss.
  • MARCH: Mr Johnson takes personal control of the government’s response to the coronavirus crisis after being stung by claims his personal life has taken over and he is acting like a ‘part-time’ prime minister. He endures heavy criticism for not visiting areas of England hard hit by flooding. He leads a meeting of the emergency committee Cobra for the first time and sets out a blueprint for how he intends to tackle the outbreak, with a focus on a public health campaign encouraging handwashing. He then warns that lives may have to be put on hold for “up to three months” to fight the disease. He raises the spectre for the first time of people being told to avoid contact with the outside world. Supermarkets are hit by panic-buying as the gravity of the situation hits home, while on public transport people start wearing homemade masks as protection. Mr Johnson washes his hands during a visit to the Mologic Laboratory in the Bedford technology Park. Getty Images
    MARCH: Mr Johnson takes personal control of the government’s response to the coronavirus crisis after being stung by claims his personal life has taken over and he is acting like a ‘part-time’ prime minister. He endures heavy criticism for not visiting areas of England hard hit by flooding. He leads a meeting of the emergency committee Cobra for the first time and sets out a blueprint for how he intends to tackle the outbreak, with a focus on a public health campaign encouraging handwashing. He then warns that lives may have to be put on hold for “up to three months” to fight the disease. He raises the spectre for the first time of people being told to avoid contact with the outside world. Supermarkets are hit by panic-buying as the gravity of the situation hits home, while on public transport people start wearing homemade masks as protection. Mr Johnson washes his hands during a visit to the Mologic Laboratory in the Bedford technology Park. Getty Images
  • MARCH: Mr Johnson begins a series of sombre press conferences at which he warns many people will die from coronavirus. With the death toll at 10 and cases likely around 10,000, he says the country faces the worst public health crisis for a generation. He urges people to work from home and stay away from pubs, restaurants and other social gatherings. He calls for people to avoid all non-essential contact and stop unnecessary travel, even putting a stop to visiting family in care homes. The first suggestions that the crisis may last 18 months are made. Getty Images
    MARCH: Mr Johnson begins a series of sombre press conferences at which he warns many people will die from coronavirus. With the death toll at 10 and cases likely around 10,000, he says the country faces the worst public health crisis for a generation. He urges people to work from home and stay away from pubs, restaurants and other social gatherings. He calls for people to avoid all non-essential contact and stop unnecessary travel, even putting a stop to visiting family in care homes. The first suggestions that the crisis may last 18 months are made. Getty Images
  • MARCH: Lockdown Britain is declared. He orders families to stay in their homes except in exceptional circumstances, shuts all non-essential shops, suspends weddings and tells people they should not meet other households. It is the biggest shutdown in the country’s history, but businesses and workers are offered some consolation with the introduction of a furlough scheme to pay half the wages of millions of workers. Members of a family listen as Mr Johnson makes a televised address to the nation from inside 10 Downing Street. AFP
    MARCH: Lockdown Britain is declared. He orders families to stay in their homes except in exceptional circumstances, shuts all non-essential shops, suspends weddings and tells people they should not meet other households. It is the biggest shutdown in the country’s history, but businesses and workers are offered some consolation with the introduction of a furlough scheme to pay half the wages of millions of workers. Members of a family listen as Mr Johnson makes a televised address to the nation from inside 10 Downing Street. AFP
  • MARCH: Mr Johnson takes part in the first 'Clap for Carers,' a weekly round of applause for NHS heroes that brings the nation out on their doorsteps to acknowledge the workers putting their lives at risk on the front line in the battle against coronavirus. He is soon in need of their assistance as he tests positive for Covid. Health Secretary Matt Hancock and Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty also test positive, raising questions over whether the government had been following their own advice carefully enough. AFP
    MARCH: Mr Johnson takes part in the first 'Clap for Carers,' a weekly round of applause for NHS heroes that brings the nation out on their doorsteps to acknowledge the workers putting their lives at risk on the front line in the battle against coronavirus. He is soon in need of their assistance as he tests positive for Covid. Health Secretary Matt Hancock and Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty also test positive, raising questions over whether the government had been following their own advice carefully enough. AFP
  • APRIL: Mr Johnson releases a video message in which he talks about the need for mass testing to “unlock the puzzle” of coronavirus. But all eyes are on his appearance as he is clearly struggling. He looks tired and short of breath. After a few days he is taken to hospital for precautionary tests as his condition worsens. Downing St insists he is still in charge, but the following day he is moved to intensive care as he struggles to breathe. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab is placed in temporary charge of the government. Messages of support flood in, including from nurses who hold up signs saying “Get well soon Boris”. AFP
    APRIL: Mr Johnson releases a video message in which he talks about the need for mass testing to “unlock the puzzle” of coronavirus. But all eyes are on his appearance as he is clearly struggling. He looks tired and short of breath. After a few days he is taken to hospital for precautionary tests as his condition worsens. Downing St insists he is still in charge, but the following day he is moved to intensive care as he struggles to breathe. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab is placed in temporary charge of the government. Messages of support flood in, including from nurses who hold up signs saying “Get well soon Boris”. AFP
  • APRIL: Mr Johnson is released from hospital to be reunited with his pregnant fiancée and declares the NHS saved his life. He releases a video clip name-checking a string of doctors and nurses who treated him. He says “things could have gone either way” during his week in hospital. He returns to Downing Street after recuperating at his official country residence Chequers. Colleagues claim he has “got his bounce back”. AFP
    APRIL: Mr Johnson is released from hospital to be reunited with his pregnant fiancée and declares the NHS saved his life. He releases a video clip name-checking a string of doctors and nurses who treated him. He says “things could have gone either way” during his week in hospital. He returns to Downing Street after recuperating at his official country residence Chequers. Colleagues claim he has “got his bounce back”. AFP
  • APRIL: From near death to nappy duty! In a rattling change of fortunes, Mr Johnson and his partner Carrie reveal the birth of their son. It is Carrie’s first child but thought to be Boris’s fifth child. Surprisingly, the PM has never confirmed exactly how many children he has through a series of relationships. The boy is named Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, in a tribute to their grandfathers and the doctors who treated the prime minister in hospital. Ms Symonds posts an image on Instagram of her and Wilfred.
    APRIL: From near death to nappy duty! In a rattling change of fortunes, Mr Johnson and his partner Carrie reveal the birth of their son. It is Carrie’s first child but thought to be Boris’s fifth child. Surprisingly, the PM has never confirmed exactly how many children he has through a series of relationships. The boy is named Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, in a tribute to their grandfathers and the doctors who treated the prime minister in hospital. Ms Symonds posts an image on Instagram of her and Wilfred.
  • JUNE: After intense pressure to relax social distancing rules amid warnings businesses cannot survive, Mr Johnson urges shoppers to return to the high street and “shop with confidence” to get beleaguered business back on track. He vows all pupils will be back in class by September. ‘I’m sure we can get it done”, he says as he puts together plans for children to be placed into classroom bubbles of 30 pupils with strict rules on moving around schools. Mr Johnson visits M&S clothing department and other retail outlets in Westfield Stratford. Getty Images
    JUNE: After intense pressure to relax social distancing rules amid warnings businesses cannot survive, Mr Johnson urges shoppers to return to the high street and “shop with confidence” to get beleaguered business back on track. He vows all pupils will be back in class by September. ‘I’m sure we can get it done”, he says as he puts together plans for children to be placed into classroom bubbles of 30 pupils with strict rules on moving around schools. Mr Johnson visits M&S clothing department and other retail outlets in Westfield Stratford. Getty Images
  • JUNE: Mr Johnson meets French President Emmanuel Macron in Downing Street, avoiding customary handshakes. Mr Macron is the first world leader to visit the UK since lockdown, as he marks the 80th anniversary of Charles de Gaulle’s famous rallying call to his countrymen from a London radio station. Getty Images
    JUNE: Mr Johnson meets French President Emmanuel Macron in Downing Street, avoiding customary handshakes. Mr Macron is the first world leader to visit the UK since lockdown, as he marks the 80th anniversary of Charles de Gaulle’s famous rallying call to his countrymen from a London radio station. Getty Images
  • JULY: Mr Johnson warns that empty offices are killing town centres, and workers should start getting back to their desks. It is part of his mission to get Britain moving again after allowing restaurants and pubs to reopen. He is seen wearing a mask for the first time as he reveals new rules forcing shoppers to cover their faces in stores. He had been initially sceptical about the value of wearing face masks in public but now concedes they could be useful in reducing transmission. Getty Images
    JULY: Mr Johnson warns that empty offices are killing town centres, and workers should start getting back to their desks. It is part of his mission to get Britain moving again after allowing restaurants and pubs to reopen. He is seen wearing a mask for the first time as he reveals new rules forcing shoppers to cover their faces in stores. He had been initially sceptical about the value of wearing face masks in public but now concedes they could be useful in reducing transmission. Getty Images
  • JULY: The public get their first real glimpse of Wilfred Johnson as he is cuddled by Carrie on a zoom call to thank University College Hospital staff who helped with the birth. The photos, released by Downing Street, show he has his daddy’s hair. Downing Street
    JULY: The public get their first real glimpse of Wilfred Johnson as he is cuddled by Carrie on a zoom call to thank University College Hospital staff who helped with the birth. The photos, released by Downing Street, show he has his daddy’s hair. Downing Street
  • JULY: Mr Johnson heads north to Scotland to praise the strength of the union within the UK. He rejects calls for a second referendum on Scottish independence. Mr Johnson holds crabs caught on the Carvela at Stromness Harbour in Stromness, Scotland. This month marks one year as UK Prime Minister. Getty Images
    JULY: Mr Johnson heads north to Scotland to praise the strength of the union within the UK. He rejects calls for a second referendum on Scottish independence. Mr Johnson holds crabs caught on the Carvela at Stromness Harbour in Stromness, Scotland. This month marks one year as UK Prime Minister. Getty Images
  • AUGUST: Mr Johnson lifts dumbbells on a visit to a gym in his Uxbridge constituency as part of the government’s anti-obesity campaign. He has lost more than a stone since falling ill earlier in the year and admits that his weight was a problem in fighting coronavirus. He also visits a school ahead of the new term to show that classrooms will not close if there is the need for a fresh lockdown. However, a fiasco over exam results for A-level and GCSE pupils mars the planning for a return to school. On a personal front, a camping trip to Scotland ends in a row after the farmer who owns the land said the PM didn’t have permission to pitch up there or light a campfire. Getty Images
    AUGUST: Mr Johnson lifts dumbbells on a visit to a gym in his Uxbridge constituency as part of the government’s anti-obesity campaign. He has lost more than a stone since falling ill earlier in the year and admits that his weight was a problem in fighting coronavirus. He also visits a school ahead of the new term to show that classrooms will not close if there is the need for a fresh lockdown. However, a fiasco over exam results for A-level and GCSE pupils mars the planning for a return to school. On a personal front, a camping trip to Scotland ends in a row after the farmer who owns the land said the PM didn’t have permission to pitch up there or light a campfire. Getty Images
  • SEPTEMBER: Brexit returns to the headlines once more, as Mr Johnson accuses the EU of trying to break up the UK as he defends controversial legislation that will overrule parts of his own Brexit deal. A minister admits it would break international law, leading to weeks of wrangling in the House of Commons over whether the new legislation would be pushed through. Mr Johnson eventually gets the measures passed despite a revolt among his own party. AFP
    SEPTEMBER: Brexit returns to the headlines once more, as Mr Johnson accuses the EU of trying to break up the UK as he defends controversial legislation that will overrule parts of his own Brexit deal. A minister admits it would break international law, leading to weeks of wrangling in the House of Commons over whether the new legislation would be pushed through. Mr Johnson eventually gets the measures passed despite a revolt among his own party. AFP
  • SEPTEMBER: Mr Johnson imposes a ‘rule of six’ restriction that limits the number of people who can meet up together. He warns that the rules are likely to be in place for months, hitting the Christmas period. He also announces plans for a ‘moonshot’ testing programme – 10 million tests a day by the new year – but is widely mocked after failures in earlier government testing efforts. Mr Johnson tours the laboratory at Oxford's Jenner Institute and meets scientists who are leading the COVID-19 vaccine research. Getty Images
    SEPTEMBER: Mr Johnson imposes a ‘rule of six’ restriction that limits the number of people who can meet up together. He warns that the rules are likely to be in place for months, hitting the Christmas period. He also announces plans for a ‘moonshot’ testing programme – 10 million tests a day by the new year – but is widely mocked after failures in earlier government testing efforts. Mr Johnson tours the laboratory at Oxford's Jenner Institute and meets scientists who are leading the COVID-19 vaccine research. Getty Images
  • SEPTEMBER: Boris slams the UK into reverse, announcing a new crackdown in a bid to stamp out a second Covid wave. He drops his back to work drive, toughens rules for pubs and restaurants and demands masks are worn more often. He raises the spectre of a total lockdown if new restrictions are not followed, but gets muddled over his own rules, failing to correctly explain them during a visit to the north east. The image of the befuddled PM is added to the gallery of PR stunts gone wrong which have dogged the colourful politician over the years. Getty Images
    SEPTEMBER: Boris slams the UK into reverse, announcing a new crackdown in a bid to stamp out a second Covid wave. He drops his back to work drive, toughens rules for pubs and restaurants and demands masks are worn more often. He raises the spectre of a total lockdown if new restrictions are not followed, but gets muddled over his own rules, failing to correctly explain them during a visit to the north east. The image of the befuddled PM is added to the gallery of PR stunts gone wrong which have dogged the colourful politician over the years. Getty Images
  • OCTOBER: The UK sees a string of local lockdowns as Mr Johnson tries to regain control of the second wave without forcing the entire country back into hibernation. But the PM faces accusations he does not have a plan to deal with the crisis as he weighs up the dual concerns of fighting the virus while reviving the economy. A news display features Mr Johnson as shoppers make their way along the streets of Manchester, one of the cities resisting being moved into the highest risk category.
    OCTOBER: The UK sees a string of local lockdowns as Mr Johnson tries to regain control of the second wave without forcing the entire country back into hibernation. But the PM faces accusations he does not have a plan to deal with the crisis as he weighs up the dual concerns of fighting the virus while reviving the economy. A news display features Mr Johnson as shoppers make their way along the streets of Manchester, one of the cities resisting being moved into the highest risk category.
  • OCTOBER: Sorting a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU moves back to the top of the agenda. But Mr Johnson declares the EU has not been serious about negotiations and is unwilling to give the Uk the same conditions as Canada, despite its 45-year partnership.
    OCTOBER: Sorting a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU moves back to the top of the agenda. But Mr Johnson declares the EU has not been serious about negotiations and is unwilling to give the Uk the same conditions as Canada, despite its 45-year partnership.
  • NOVEMBER: Mr Johnson attends the House of Commons remotely by video-link to update MPs on the Covid-19 pandemic, in a hybrid, socially distanced session at the House of Commons in London. AFP
    NOVEMBER: Mr Johnson attends the House of Commons remotely by video-link to update MPs on the Covid-19 pandemic, in a hybrid, socially distanced session at the House of Commons in London. AFP
  • NOVEMBER: Boris Johnson (left), wears a hair net and face covering to see the last minute quality testing of the 'fill and finish' stage of the manufacturing process of Covid-19 vaccines, in Wrexham, north Wales. AFP
    NOVEMBER: Boris Johnson (left), wears a hair net and face covering to see the last minute quality testing of the 'fill and finish' stage of the manufacturing process of Covid-19 vaccines, in Wrexham, north Wales. AFP
  • DECEMBER: Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson returns to his official residence at 10 Downing Street after attending Prime Minister's Questions. EPA
    DECEMBER: Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson returns to his official residence at 10 Downing Street after attending Prime Minister's Questions. EPA
  • DECEMBER: He tries his hand at cable splicing with instructor Colin Wilkinson (right) during a visit to the Openreach Learning and Development Training Centre in Bolton, northwest England. AFP
    DECEMBER: He tries his hand at cable splicing with instructor Colin Wilkinson (right) during a visit to the Openreach Learning and Development Training Centre in Bolton, northwest England. AFP
  • DECEMBER: Britain's Prime Minister, Boris Johnson attends a virtual press conference inside 10 Downing Street after a string of countries banned travellers and all but unaccompanied freight arriving from the UK, due to the rapid spread of a new, more-infectious coronavirus strain. Getty Images
    DECEMBER: Britain's Prime Minister, Boris Johnson attends a virtual press conference inside 10 Downing Street after a string of countries banned travellers and all but unaccompanied freight arriving from the UK, due to the rapid spread of a new, more-infectious coronavirus strain. Getty Images

Europe

Boris Johnson interview: Come together to repair the world under my leadership

'A tiny pathogen has stopped the world, we can't allow that to happen again,' prime minister tells 'The National'

Thomas Harding
Damien McElroy
London

October 19, 2020

  • English
  • Arabic

Boris Johnson has said his personal recovery from the Covid-19 disease is driving efforts to ensure that the world is never again hit so hard by “a tiny pathogen” that has devastated society.

The British prime minister used an interview with The National to reveal how his personal experience is helping him rally international backing for his recovery plans - including universal access to any potential vaccine.

“I’m determined that the UK will drive forward the effort to find a vaccine, repair the global economy and prevent future health crises," Mr Johnson said.

“As a leader, that experience renewed my resolve to protect the public and our health system while ensuring that the economy stays afloat. It’s a difficult balancing act facing every government around the world today.”

Mr Johnson contracted the virus and was admitted to intensive care in March. On his release he admitted his fate had hung in the balance and paid tribute to the health care professionals who had looked after him.

That experience has informed his thinking ever since. With the country set to take leadership of the G7 and chair the global climate change conference COP26 in 2021, Mr Johnson believes London will play a pivotal role in how the recovery takes shape.

“I have set out a five-point plan to prevent future pandemics," he said. "It includes proposals like developing a worldwide network of zoonotic hubs to spot diseases before they leap from animals to humans, a pandemic early warning system and measures to reduce trade barriers on health-critical items.

“The UK will work with our international partners to put this plan into action. The basic functions of our societies have ground to a halt thanks to this tiny pathogen – we can’t allow that to happen again.”

The 56-year old, the first sitting British prime minister to be interviewed by The National, said he wanted to develop the links between the UK and its friends in the Arabian Gulf area.

“The UK’s partnerships with Gulf nations are incredibly important for our prosperity and security,” he said. “Some 175,000 British nationals live in the Gulf, and before Covid affected all our lives, one million Brits visited each year – to do business, forge relationships and enjoy some of that fabled sunshine.”

Mr Johnson looked ahead to next month's Riyadh G20 summit as a key moment for co-ordinated international efforts to repair the damage wrought by the virus.

“The priority for the UK is for the G20 to reach agreements on health, the economy and climate,” he said. “This includes global access to any coronavirus vaccine, debt financing for developing and middle-income countries, and tangible measures to tackle climate change.

“This should be underpinned by a continued commitment to free trade as the basis for a strong and sustainable recovery.”

He added that he saw the summit as a “as a key moment to address issues of global importance,” including how the world “drives a green economic recovery from coronavirus”.

With the pandemic forcing world leaders to take to their laptops for the summit – “Zoom conferences are never quite the same as meeting in person” - Mr Johnson believed it was still “a great opportunity for our hosts Saudi Arabia to showcase their vision for the future”.

Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson speaking in No 10 Downing Street.
Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson speaking in No 10 Downing Street.

Turning to British foreign policy, Mr Johnson vowed that Britain would not be complacent in dealing with Iran following the expiry on Sunday of the UN arms embargo on the country.

Asked if he was worried Iran might obtain more sophisticated weapons from Russia and China, he stated that this would be unlikely. “Come the end of this month significant restrictions will remain on Iran’s ability to trade in arms, both from remaining UN restrictions and from its economic situation.”

Having served as Foreign Secretary at the time Donald Trump, the US president, ordered the withdrawal from the 2015 JCPOA nuclear deal with Iran, Mr Johnson has been deeply involved in how to handle the deep divisions over the accord.

Some 175,000 British nationals live in the Gulf, and before Covid affected all our lives, one million Brits visited each year – to do business, forge relationships and enjoy some of that fabled sunshine

Britain remains committed to working with France, Germany and the US to find a “sustainable solution to Iranian weapons proliferation” following the failure to agree a new United Nations Security Council resolution on the embargo. Mr Johnson acknowledged the challenge that development posed for the region.

“I’ve voiced my concern on many occasions about the destabilising role Iran plays in the region. We’re working hard, including at the UN, to find a constructive solution to address the threat to security posed by the expiry of the arms embargo.”

He was unambiguous in responding to a question on whether Britain and the US would continue the strong defence relationship with the region in regards to ISIS and Iran. “Absolutely!” he replied. “Working together to tackle shared security challenges is a cornerstone of Britain’s relationship with many Gulf states. This partnership is vital for the safety and security of the UK and is something we want to continue to develop.”

He added that Britain stood alongside its Gulf partners “in condemning Iran’s destabilising behaviour,” and that Tehran faced a choice: “Ratchet up its approach and face growing isolation, or it can come in from cold and work with the international community.”

Turning to the recent agreement between the UAE, Bahrain and Israel, Mr Johnson said he welcomed the Abraham Accords “as a positive step on the path to peace” by normalising relations. “Co-operation and dialogue must win out over hostility and division.”

He also hinted that there may be further announcements to come to increase engagement in the process that has led to stronger ties across the region. “We are exploring areas where the UK can work with all three countries to deepen that cooperation.”

Mr Johnson said he “strongly welcomed” the suspension of Israel's further annexation plans that came at the same time. “I hope that we see further progress, including a halt to settlement activity and a move by other states in the region to normalise relations,” he added.

Britain would also maintain its longstanding position on the Middle East Peace Process. “We support a negotiated agreement leading to a safe and secure Israel living alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state. This would be based on 1967 borders with agreed land swaps, Jerusalem as the shared capital of both states, and a fair settlement for refugees.”

He added that London would be willing to assist in discussions that would lead to the revival of direct negotiations. “Ultimately, there is no substitute for direct talks between the Palestinians and Israelis and we must back any effort to bring the two parties together. The UK stands ready to help facilitate meaningful dialogue in any way that we can.”

Recalling the UAE’s gift of 100 tonnes of protective equipment at the height of the spring Covid-19 crisis, Mr Johnson was cheered by this, calling it “a bright spot of cooperation and friendship” at a time when the virus was spreading rapidly.

Looking to the future recovery that he seeks to spearhead, he was saddened that “too often countries have operated on the principle of "every man for himself’”.

“As I said in my address to the UN General Assembly last month, Covid has been an extraordinary force for division. We’re all facing the same enemy, but nations have thrown up barriers when we should have been breaking them down.

An author and historian, Mr Johnson sees the task ahead as achievable if there is a spirt of united endeavour between countries. “If the world is to recover from this devastating pandemic, we will have to pull together,” he added.

The bio

His favourite book - 1984 by George Orwell

His favourite quote - 'If you think education is expensive, try ignorance' by Derek Bok, Former President of Harvard

Favourite place to travel to - Peloponnese, Southern Greece

Favourite movie - The Last Emperor

Favourite personality from history - Alexander the Great

Role Model - My father, Yiannis Davos

 

 

Citizenship-by-investment programmes

United Kingdom

The UK offers three programmes for residency. The UK Overseas Business Representative Visa lets you open an overseas branch office of your existing company in the country at no extra investment. For the UK Tier 1 Innovator Visa, you are required to invest £50,000 (Dh238,000) into a business. You can also get a UK Tier 1 Investor Visa if you invest £2 million, £5m or £10m (the higher the investment, the sooner you obtain your permanent residency).

All UK residency visas get approved in 90 to 120 days and are valid for 3 years. After 3 years, the applicant can apply for extension of another 2 years. Once they have lived in the UK for a minimum of 6 months every year, they are eligible to apply for permanent residency (called Indefinite Leave to Remain). After one year of ILR, the applicant can apply for UK passport.

The Caribbean

Depending on the country, the investment amount starts from $100,000 (Dh367,250) and can go up to $400,000 in real estate. From the date of purchase, it will take between four to five months to receive a passport. 

Portugal

The investment amount ranges from €350,000 to €500,000 (Dh1.5m to Dh2.16m) in real estate. From the date of purchase, it will take a maximum of six months to receive a Golden Visa. Applicants can apply for permanent residency after five years and Portuguese citizenship after six years.

“Among European countries with residency programmes, Portugal has been the most popular because it offers the most cost-effective programme to eventually acquire citizenship of the European Union without ever residing in Portugal,” states Veronica Cotdemiey of Citizenship Invest.

Greece

The real estate investment threshold to acquire residency for Greece is €250,000, making it the cheapest real estate residency visa scheme in Europe. You can apply for residency in four months and citizenship after seven years.

Spain

The real estate investment threshold to acquire residency for Spain is €500,000. You can apply for permanent residency after five years and citizenship after 10 years. It is not necessary to live in Spain to retain and renew the residency visa permit.

Cyprus

Cyprus offers the quickest route to citizenship of a European country in only six months. An investment of €2m in real estate is required, making it the highest priced programme in Europe.

Malta

The Malta citizenship by investment programme is lengthy and investors are required to contribute sums as donations to the Maltese government. The applicant must either contribute at least €650,000 to the National Development & Social Fund. Spouses and children are required to contribute €25,000; unmarried children between 18 and 25 and dependent parents must contribute €50,000 each.

The second step is to make an investment in property of at least €350,000 or enter a property rental contract for at least €16,000 per annum for five years. The third step is to invest at least €150,000 in bonds or shares approved by the Maltese government to be kept for at least five years.

Candidates must commit to a minimum physical presence in Malta before citizenship is granted. While you get residency in two months, you can apply for citizenship after a year.

Egypt 

A one-year residency permit can be bought if you purchase property in Egypt worth $100,000. A three-year residency is available for those who invest $200,000 in property, and five years for those who purchase property worth $400,000.

Source: Citizenship Invest and Aqua Properties

'Gold'

Director:Anthony Hayes

Stars:Zaf Efron, Anthony Hayes

Rating:3/5

Milestones on the road to union

1970

October 26: Bahrain withdraws from a proposal to create a federation of nine with the seven Trucial States and Qatar. 

December: Ahmed Al Suwaidi visits New York to discuss potential UN membership.

1971

March 1:  Alex Douglas Hume, Conservative foreign secretary confirms that Britain will leave the Gulf and “strongly supports” the creation of a Union of Arab Emirates.

July 12: Historic meeting at which Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid make a binding agreement to create what will become the UAE.

July 18: It is announced that the UAE will be formed from six emirates, with a proposed constitution signed. RAK is not yet part of the agreement.

August 6:  The fifth anniversary of Sheikh Zayed becoming Ruler of Abu Dhabi, with official celebrations deferred until later in the year.

August 15: Bahrain becomes independent.

September 3: Qatar becomes independent.

November 23-25: Meeting with Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid and senior British officials to fix December 2 as date of creation of the UAE.

November 29:  At 5.30pm Iranian forces seize the Greater and Lesser Tunbs by force.

November 30: Despite  a power sharing agreement, Tehran takes full control of Abu Musa. 

November 31: UK officials visit all six participating Emirates to formally end the Trucial States treaties

December 2: 11am, Dubai. New Supreme Council formally elects Sheikh Zayed as President. Treaty of Friendship signed with the UK. 11.30am. Flag raising ceremony at Union House and Al Manhal Palace in Abu Dhabi witnessed by Sheikh Khalifa, then Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.

December 6: Arab League formally admits the UAE. The first British Ambassador presents his credentials to Sheikh Zayed.

December 9: UAE joins the United Nations.

MATCH INFO

Rugby World Cup (all times UAE)

Final: England v South Africa, Saturday, 1pm

UAE v Zimbabwe A

Results
Match 1 – UAE won by 4 wickets
Match 2 – UAE won by 5 wickets
Match 3 – UAE won by 25 runs
Match 4 – UAE won by 77 runs

Fixture
Match 5, Saturday, 9.30am start, ICC Academy, Dubai

THE SPECS

Aston Martin Rapide AMR

Engine: 6.0-litre V12

Transmission: Touchtronic III eight-speed automatic

Power: 595bhp

Torque: 630Nm

Price: Dh999,563

On Women's Day
MOUNTAINHEAD REVIEW

Starring: Ramy Youssef, Steve Carell, Jason Schwartzman

Director: Jesse Armstrong

Rating: 3.5/5

The%20specs
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EEngine%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%201.8-litre%204-cyl%20turbo%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPower%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E190hp%20at%205%2C200rpm%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ETorque%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20320Nm%20from%201%2C800-5%2C000rpm%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ETransmission%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3ESeven-speed%20dual-clutch%20auto%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EFuel%20consumption%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%206.7L%2F100km%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPrice%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20From%20Dh111%2C195%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EOn%20sale%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3ENow%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
The%20specs%3A%202024%20Mercedes%20E200
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EEngine%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E2.0-litre%20four-cyl%20turbo%20%2B%20mild%20hybrid%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPower%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E204hp%20at%205%2C800rpm%20%2B23hp%20hybrid%20boost%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ETorque%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E320Nm%20at%201%2C800rpm%20%2B205Nm%20hybrid%20boost%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ETransmission%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E9-speed%20auto%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EFuel%20consumption%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E7.3L%2F100km%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EOn%20sale%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3ENovember%2FDecember%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPrice%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EFrom%20Dh205%2C000%20(estimate)%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
About RuPay

A homegrown card payment scheme launched by the National Payments Corporation of India and backed by the Reserve Bank of India, the country’s central bank

RuPay process payments between banks and merchants for purchases made with credit or debit cards

It has grown rapidly in India and competes with global payment network firms like MasterCard and Visa.

In India, it can be used at ATMs, for online payments and variations of the card can be used to pay for bus, metro charges, road toll payments

The name blends two words rupee and payment

Some advantages of the network include lower processing fees and transaction costs

In-demand jobs and monthly salaries
  • Technology expert in robotics and automation: Dh20,000 to Dh40,000 
  • Energy engineer: Dh25,000 to Dh30,000 
  • Production engineer: Dh30,000 to Dh40,000 
  • Data-driven supply chain management professional: Dh30,000 to Dh50,000 
  • HR leader: Dh40,000 to Dh60,000 
  • Engineering leader: Dh30,000 to Dh55,000 
  • Project manager: Dh55,000 to Dh65,000 
  • Senior reservoir engineer: Dh40,000 to Dh55,000 
  • Senior drilling engineer: Dh38,000 to Dh46,000 
  • Senior process engineer: Dh28,000 to Dh38,000 
  • Senior maintenance engineer: Dh22,000 to Dh34,000 
  • Field engineer: Dh6,500 to Dh7,500
  • Field supervisor: Dh9,000 to Dh12,000
  • Field operator: Dh5,000 to Dh7,000
ALRAWABI%20SCHOOL%20FOR%20GIRLS
%3Cp%3ECreator%3A%20Tima%20Shomali%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3EStarring%3A%C2%A0Tara%20Abboud%2C%C2%A0Kira%20Yaghnam%2C%20Tara%20Atalla%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3ERating%3A%204%2F5%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
THE APPRENTICE

Director: Ali Abbasi

Starring: Sebastian Stan, Maria Bakalova, Jeremy Strong

Rating: 3/5

Ten tax points to be aware of in 2026

1. Domestic VAT refund amendments: request your refund within five years

If a business does not apply for the refund on time, they lose their credit.

2. E-invoicing in the UAE

Businesses should continue preparing for the implementation of e-invoicing in the UAE, with 2026 a preparation and transition period ahead of phased mandatory adoption. 

3. More tax audits

Tax authorities are increasingly using data already available across multiple filings to identify audit risks. 

4. More beneficial VAT and excise tax penalty regime

Tax disputes are expected to become more frequent and more structured, with clearer administrative objection and appeal processes. The UAE has adopted a new penalty regime for VAT and excise disputes, which now mirrors the penalty regime for corporate tax.

5. Greater emphasis on statutory audit

There is a greater need for the accuracy of financial statements. The International Financial Reporting Standards standards need to be strictly adhered to and, as a result, the quality of the audits will need to increase.

6. Further transfer pricing enforcement

Transfer pricing enforcement, which refers to the practice of establishing prices for internal transactions between related entities, is expected to broaden in scope. The UAE will shortly open the possibility to negotiate advance pricing agreements, or essentially rulings for transfer pricing purposes. 

7. Limited time periods for audits

Recent amendments also introduce a default five-year limitation period for tax audits and assessments, subject to specific statutory exceptions. While the standard audit and assessment period is five years, this may be extended to up to 15 years in cases involving fraud or tax evasion. 

8. Pillar 2 implementation 

Many multinational groups will begin to feel the practical effect of the Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax (DMTT), the UAE's implementation of the OECD’s global minimum tax under Pillar 2. While the rules apply for financial years starting on or after January 1, 2025, it is 2026 that marks the transition to an operational phase.

9. Reduced compliance obligations for imported goods and services

Businesses that apply the reverse-charge mechanism for VAT purposes in the UAE may benefit from reduced compliance obligations. 

10. Substance and CbC reporting focus

Tax authorities are expected to continue strengthening the enforcement of economic substance and Country-by-Country (CbC) reporting frameworks. In the UAE, these regimes are increasingly being used as risk-assessment tools, providing tax authorities with a comprehensive view of multinational groups’ global footprints and enabling them to assess whether profits are aligned with real economic activity. 

Contributed by Thomas Vanhee and Hend Rashwan, Aurifer

Company%20profile
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Company%20Profile
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Company Fact Box

Company name/date started: Abwaab Technologies / September 2019

Founders: Hamdi Tabbaa, co-founder and CEO. Hussein Alsarabi, co-founder and CTO

Based: Amman, Jordan

Sector: Education Technology

Size (employees/revenue): Total team size: 65. Full-time employees: 25. Revenue undisclosed

Stage: early-stage startup 

Investors: Adam Tech Ventures, Endure Capital, Equitrust, the World Bank-backed Innovative Startups SMEs Fund, a London investment fund, a number of former and current executives from Uber and Netflix, among others.

Film: Raid
Dir: Rajkumar Gupta
Starring: Ajay Devgn, Ileana D'cruz and Saurabh Shukla

Verdict:  Three stars 

Afro%20salons
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Transgender report
Global state-owned investor ranking by size

1.

United States

2.

China

3.

UAE

4.

Japan

5

Norway

6.

Canada

7.

Singapore

8.

Australia

9.

Saudi Arabia

10.

South Korea
How to avoid crypto fraud
  • Use unique usernames and passwords while enabling multi-factor authentication.
  • Use an offline private key, a physical device that requires manual activation, whenever you access your wallet.
  • Avoid suspicious social media ads promoting fraudulent schemes.
  • Only invest in crypto projects that you fully understand.
  • Critically assess whether a project’s promises or returns seem too good to be true.
  • Only use reputable platforms that have a track record of strong regulatory compliance.
  • Store funds in hardware wallets as opposed to online exchanges.
Key facilities
  • Olympic-size swimming pool with a split bulkhead for multi-use configurations, including water polo and 50m/25m training lanes
  • Premier League-standard football pitch
  • 400m Olympic running track
  • NBA-spec basketball court with auditorium
  • 600-seat auditorium
  • Spaces for historical and cultural exploration
  • An elevated football field that doubles as a helipad
  • Specialist robotics and science laboratories
  • AR and VR-enabled learning centres
  • Disruption Lab and Research Centre for developing entrepreneurial skills

Mercer, the investment consulting arm of US services company Marsh & McLennan, expects its wealth division to at least double its assets under management (AUM) in the Middle East as wealth in the region continues to grow despite economic headwinds, a company official said.

Mercer Wealth, which globally has $160 billion in AUM, plans to boost its AUM in the region to $2-$3bn in the next 2-3 years from the present $1bn, said Yasir AbuShaban, a Dubai-based principal with Mercer Wealth.

“Within the next two to three years, we are looking at reaching $2 to $3 billion as a conservative estimate and we do see an opportunity to do so,” said Mr AbuShaban.

Mercer does not directly make investments, but allocates clients’ money they have discretion to, to professional asset managers. They also provide advice to clients.

“We have buying power. We can negotiate on their (client’s) behalf with asset managers to provide them lower fees than they otherwise would have to get on their own,” he added.

Mercer Wealth’s clients include sovereign wealth funds, family offices, and insurance companies among others.

From its office in Dubai, Mercer also looks after Africa, India and Turkey, where they also see opportunity for growth.

Wealth creation in Middle East and Africa (MEA) grew 8.5 per cent to $8.1 trillion last year from $7.5tn in 2015, higher than last year’s global average of 6 per cent and the second-highest growth in a region after Asia-Pacific which grew 9.9 per cent, according to consultancy Boston Consulting Group (BCG). In the region, where wealth grew just 1.9 per cent in 2015 compared with 2014, a pickup in oil prices has helped in wealth generation.

BCG is forecasting MEA wealth will rise to $12tn by 2021, growing at an annual average of 8 per cent.

Drivers of wealth generation in the region will be split evenly between new wealth creation and growth of performance of existing assets, according to BCG.

Another general trend in the region is clients’ looking for a comprehensive approach to investing, according to Mr AbuShaban.

“Institutional investors or some of the families are seeing a slowdown in the available capital they have to invest and in that sense they are looking at optimizing the way they manage their portfolios and making sure they are not investing haphazardly and different parts of their investment are working together,” said Mr AbuShaban.

Some clients also have a higher appetite for risk, given the low interest-rate environment that does not provide enough yield for some institutional investors. These clients are keen to invest in illiquid assets, such as private equity and infrastructure.

“What we have seen is a desire for higher returns in what has been a low-return environment specifically in various fixed income or bonds,” he said.

“In this environment, we have seen a de facto increase in the risk that clients are taking in things like illiquid investments, private equity investments, infrastructure and private debt, those kind of investments were higher illiquidity results in incrementally higher returns.”

The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, one of the largest sovereign wealth funds, said in its 2016 report that has gradually increased its exposure in direct private equity and private credit transactions, mainly in Asian markets and especially in China and India. The authority’s private equity department focused on structured equities owing to “their defensive characteristics.”

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