Al-Sudani: We aspire to see the UK as a strategic partner in our ambitious projects

INA-  Baghdad

Prime Minister Mohamed Shia Al-Sudani revealed on Monday the objectives of his visit to London, noting that the relationship between Iraq and the United Kingdom has witnessed major transformations over recent decades, he stressed that the United Kingdom's exports to Iraq exceeded one billion dollars in 2024.
 
The Prime Minister said, in an article published on the Telegraph newspaper and followed by the Iraqi News Agency (INA): “This visit reflects my government’s commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership between Iraq and the UK, a partnership deeply rooted in history and one that aspires to broader horizons of economic, trade, and cultural co-operation."
 
He added “Meeting His Majesty the King holds great symbolic significance as it underscores the enduring historical ties between our two countries and highlights the importance we place on deepening dialogue and co-ordination on issues of security, stability and development in our region.”
 
Al-Sudani said “the visit also coincides with transformations in Syria, highlighting the urgent need for regional and international solidarity to ensure the free will and aspirations of the Syrian people are respected. Protecting the rights of minorities and preserving Syria’s rich ethnic, religious, and social diversity.”
 
 
The Prime Minister stated “The relationship between Iraq and the UK has undergone significant transformations over recent decades, from the reconstruction phase post-2003 to the crucial role the UK played in providing military and intelligence support during Iraq’s fight against Isis. Today, as our country achieves greater levels of security and stability, the time has come to transition to a new phase of sustainable economic partnership.”
 
He said “This partnership aims to contribute to Iraq’s development and diversify its sources of income while offering the UK expanded opportunities in a promising market of considerable human and economic potential,” adding that “My discussions with Sir Keir Starmer and senior government officials will focus on ways to support our ambitious plans to rehabilitate infrastructure and develop productive sectors, particularly energy, which remains the backbone of Iraq’s economy.
 
 He added that “For years, prominent British companies have played a key role in developing significant oil fields such as Rumaila and Kirkuk. Recently, this co-operation was further solidified through a new agreement with one of Britain’s largest companies to establish a major gas project that includes rehabilitating the North Oil Company fields and constructing extensive infrastructure for the petroleum industry.”
 
 He also affirmed “we aim to enhance trade relations, which have seen remarkable growth in recent years. Over the past two years, British companies have secured major contracts in various fields, including infrastructure, energy, technology, industry, and defence, with a total value exceeding $3 billion (£2.46 million),” adding that “The UK’s exports to Iraq surpassed $1 billion in 2024, marking a 6.4 per cent increase compared to the previous year, with 36 per cent of exports comprising goods and 37 per cent of services.”
 
He confirmed “We aspire to see the UK as a strategic partner in our ambitious projects, foremost among them the Development Road initiative, which aims to position Iraq as a global trade hub connecting East and West,” adding that “This project offers a genuine opportunity for British expertise in managing and financing major infrastructure projects, providing a collaborative platform that benefits the strategic interests of both countries while promoting broader economic stability in the region.”
 
The Prime Minister explained that “This visit will also address other key areas, including continuing the reform of Iraq’s banking sector in collaboration with British financial institutions and exchanging expertise in digital transformation and modern technologies to improve government services and enhance administrative efficiency,” stressing that “ We are determined to channel investments into developing education and training to equip young Iraqis with the skills required to meet the demands of the next phase of development.”
 
He stressed “We recognise the need to safeguard the security gains achieved with the support of our international partners. In London, we will explore ways to enhance co-operation in security and counter-terrorism, protecting both domestic and regional stability,” confirming “We also seek to benefit from British expertise in defence and military industries to bolster Iraq’s capabilities in this critical area.”
 
 
He stated “My upcoming meetings in London carry a clear message: Iraq is committed to building partnerships based on shared interests and forward-looking vision. We seek a global partner with political and economic weight, and the UK is well-positioned to play this vital role.”
 
 The prime minister confirmed “ we embark on a new chapter of growth and reconstruction. Drawing on a shared historical legacy and a genuine desire to build stronger bridges of co-operation,” affirming that “ I am confident that the outcomes of this visit will not only strengthen economic exchange but also lay the groundwork for stronger security and cultural ties.”
 
Al-Sudani concluded “Today’s Iraq, with its human resources, natural wealth, and strategic location, aspires to be a haven for investment and a destination for global businesses. We can think of no better friends and partners than those in the UK to continue this journey and fulfill our shared aspirations for a future of greater prosperity and stability.”