Ankara: The United Kingdom's new Ambassador to Ankara, Jennifer Elizabeth Anderson, has announced a shift in Britain's approach towards Israel, following the decision to ban trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories. "The UK is now changing its approach. There has been unimaginable suffering in Gaza and the West Bank, and this cannot continue," Anderson stated in an interview with Anadolu, emphasizing that the UK "will not remain silent while more suffering continues."
According to Anadolu Agency, Anderson, who recently began her tenure in Ankara, presented her credentials to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on September 8. Anderson has previously served as Deputy Head of Mission at the British Embassy in Ankara and has maintained a strong connection with Turkey, having coordinated Britain's assistance efforts following the 2023 earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaras.
Discussing her return to Ankara, Anderson expressed her enthusiasm for living at the ambassador's residence in Cankaya and her fondness for the city. She also shared her appreciation for Turkish cuisine and culture, noting her enjoyment of traditional dishes like karalahana sarmasi and desserts such as katmer.
On the subject of UK-Turkey relations, Anderson highlighted the strengthening ties between the two countries. She noted the signing of a Strategic Partnership Framework in April and a Security and Defence Partnership agreement in July, which have deepened bilateral cooperation. Anderson emphasized the significant growth in bilateral trade, which has increased from £17 billion to £28.6 billion, and the rising number of British tourists visiting Turkey.
In light of the recent decision by 12 countries, including the UK, to ban trade with Israeli settlements, Anderson reiterated Britain's commitment to supporting a two-state solution. She acknowledged the insufficient actions taken so far and expressed a desire to work collaboratively with regional countries to address the ongoing issues in Palestine. Anderson affirmed that the UK would continue to assess Israel's actions and expects a new approach from the Israeli government regarding Gaza and the West Bank.