We were delighted to welcome Lieutenant General Sir John Gordon Lorimer KCB DSO MBE, Defence Senior Advisor to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). He reflected on his experience of working closely with all countries in MENA and what the opportunities are for the United Kingdom in the future. Sir John assumed the role in January 2018, and has a wealth of experience in the region, having been primarily responsible for helping the UK develop its long-term bilateral relationships, regularly meeting with senior military officials, politicians and royalty. It was fascinating to hear about the challenges and opportunities that may lie ahead as we continue to build on our historic relationships. Despite the Integrated Review’s Indo-pacific tilt, it is vital that the Middle East is not forgotten in our vision of a ‘Global Britain’.