A flexible global network serving the whole of the British Government
Through the FCO, the UK has a local presence in 145 countries across the world.
Support the British economy
Globalisation is a fact of life. It is altering the way in which the UKdoes business with the rest of the world. It brings us massive benefits.
Support British nationals abroad
Every year, about nine million people read our travel advice, over400,000 get passports through our offices overseas, and thousands turn to us for help after suffering crime or illness abroad.
Support managed migration for Britain
The FCO is at the heart of the Government’s joined-up approach to migration.
Counter terrorism, weapons proliferation and their causes
The FCO leads the development of strategy for the Government’s work overseas and co-ordinates its implementation through our network ofposts and spending on programmes.
Prevent and resolve conflict
Tackling conflict effectively requires involvement in preventing conflict, mediation and resolution, peacekeeping and peace-building.
Promote a low carbon, high growth, global economy
The challenges presented by globalisation to a prosperous, just and secure world became ever more apparent in 2007.
Develop effective international institutions, above all the UN and EU
Global issues, such as the threat from terrorism, weapons proliferation and climate change, demand global responses.
The new strategic framework and our Public Service Agreements (PSAs)
In 1998 the Government introduced PSAs, which set government-wide goals for service improvements.
New partnerships across government
The FCO works closely with many partners across Government to shape the Government’s policies in London and to deliver them across the world.