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Iraq and UK Expand Talks on Investment and Energy Cooperation

Iraq and the United Kingdom are moving to strengthen economic cooperation through new discussions focused on investment, energy, and transportation projects. Officials from both countries reviewed several initiatives during a virtual meeting organized by the Iraqi Embassy in London and the Iraq Britain Business Council. The talks reflected growing interest in expanding the Iraq UK partnership across multiple sectors.

Iraqi Ambassador Dr. Salih Husain Ali Al-Tamimi led the discussions with representatives from the Iraq Britain Business Council. Participants examined political and economic developments in Iraq alongside opportunities for future cooperation between Baghdad and London.

One of the main topics involved the Iraq-UK Partnership and Cooperation Agreement. Iraqi officials confirmed that the agreement still awaits formal ratification. Authorities also established a specialized committee within the Prime Minister’s Office to supervise implementation plans once the agreement becomes active.

The meeting also addressed possible cooperation with UK Export Finance, commonly known as UKEF. Officials discussed ways the British agency could support investment and financing projects connected to Iraq’s infrastructure and economic development plans.

Transport and aviation cooperation formed another major part of the talks. Both sides reviewed efforts to restore direct flights between Iraq and the United Kingdom. Officials believe renewed air connections could support business travel, tourism, and trade relations between the two countries.

Energy cooperation remained central to the discussions as well. Participants reviewed Iraqi oil exports and recent developments involving Iraq’s relations with Turkiye. The two sides also explored opportunities for maritime cooperation and transportation projects linked to regional trade routes.

The expanding Iraq UK partnership may also include stronger institutional cooperation in the transport sector. Officials discussed a possible memorandum of understanding between Iraq’s Ministry of Transport and the Iraq Britain Business Council. The proposal aims to improve coordination on infrastructure and logistics projects.

The Iraqi Embassy delegation included Counsellor Amer Abdulhussein Al-Fatlawi and Counsellor Atheer Abood Alsaedy. The Iraq Britain Business Council delegation included Managing Director Christophe Michels along with several council members.

British companies continue showing interest in Iraq’s energy, transport, and industrial sectors. Iraqi officials hope stronger international partnerships can attract foreign investment and accelerate economic modernization efforts across the country.

The latest discussions highlighted broader efforts by Baghdad to deepen economic ties with international partners. Officials believe the growing Iraq UK partnership could support long-term investment opportunities and strengthen cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and energy development.