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The relationship between the Middle East and Europe has been shaped by centuries of cultural, political, and economic interaction. Today, energy security and geopolitics, in particular, have become even bigger drivers of the important bilateral relationship.

Fifty years to the week after Margaret Thatcher became leader of the UK’s Conservative Party, comparisons are often drawn between that so-called Iron Lady and the party’s new leader, Kemi Badenoch.

Since 2020, Europe has experienced the worst pandemic for a century, the largest war on the continent since 1945 and the biggest energy shock since the 1970s. Far from being a Belle Epoque of peace and prosperity, it has been much more of a time of troubles.

The UK’s China policy swung dramatically during the 14 years of Conservative rule from 2010. While the new Labour administration is seeking to bring more stability to UK-China ties, this will be increasingly challenging given the growing lack of political consensus over Beijing.

Last year was the biggest 12 months for elections in living memory, with billions of people going to the polls. However, 2025 will also be a key year, with its ballots shaping international economics and politics into the 2030s.