The Troika (Norway, the UK and US) welcome the agreement reached by the Transitional Military Council (TMC) and Forces for Freedom and Change (FFC) on a political declaration that sets out the structure and broad responsibilities for a transitional government. We hope that these institutions can gain the trust and support of the Sudanese people.

The Troika also commends the efforts of the African Union, Ethiopian and Sudanese mediators in helping the parties achieve agreement. We encourage the parties to quickly conclude the parallel constitutional agreement and form the civilian-led transitional government, which the Sudanese people have courageously and peacefully demanded since December 2018.

We welcome the commitment of the parties to support an independent investigation of June 3 and other acts of violence, to negotiate an end to Sudan’s internal conflicts and to pursue economic, legal and constitutional reforms during the 39-month transition period. The Troika looks forward to engaging a civilian-led transitional government as it works to achieve the Sudanese people’s aspirations for responsive governance, peace, justice and development.

This letter from Neil O’Connor (Director, Building Safety Programme) asks housing associations to undertake a data collection exercise on the buildings they are responsible for. The purpose of the data collection is to gather information on the external wall systems used on high rise residential buildings.

This letter from Neil O’Connor (Director, Building Safety Programme) asks local authorities to undertake a data collection exercise on the buildings in their area. The purpose of the data collection is to gather information on the external wall systems used on high rise residential buildings.

Lebanese Minister of Defence Elias Bou Saab ended a two-day visit to the United Kingdom. The visit reflects the value Britain places on the relationship with Lebanon and in particular our defence cooperation.

In London, Bou Saab met with Secretary of State for Defence Penny Mordaunt, Minister of State for the Armed Forces Mark Lancaster, and Chief of the Defence Staff General Sir Nick Carter

Speaking after the visit Ambassador Chris Rampling said:

‘I am very pleased to see Minister Elias Bou Saab conclude a successful visit to the United Kingdom. We remain strong and committed partners of the Lebanese army and we look forward to strengthening our military and security relations even further.

Lebanon’s security and stability is in the UK national interest.

The UK remains a steadfast supporter to Lebanon through ongoing social, economic, educational and humanitarian projects, in addition to further support to the Lebanese Armed Forces and other security agencies. The LAF remains the sole legitimate defender of Lebanon.’

A taskforce of leaders from business and environmental organisations meets for the first time to consider actions the UK can take to green its international supply chains and leave a lighter footprint on the global environment.